New Delhi, December 17, 2025:
A viral video shared by a Blinkit delivery partner has ignited a nationwide debate on fair wages in India’s gig economy. The clip, posted by a rider known as Thapliyal Ji from Uttarakhand, exposes the harsh reality behind quick-commerce convenience—showing how a full day of exhausting work can sometimes pay less than a cup of tea.
As the video spread rapidly across social media, it triggered outrage, political reactions, and renewed questions about algorithm-driven pay systems used by delivery platforms.
Inside a 15-Hour Delivery Shift
In the now-viral video, Thapliyal Ji walks viewers through screenshots from his Blinkit partner app to back his claims. The data paints a troubling picture.
Over a 15-hour shift in Delhi, the rider completed 28 deliveries. By the end of the day, his total earnings stood at ₹763, including incentives. However, what shocked viewers most was the payout for his final delivery—just ₹15.83.
When averaged out, his earnings came to around ₹52 per hour, a figure that barely covers fuel costs, let alone meals or daily living expenses. As a result, many users described the situation as “digital-era exploitation.”
Political Leaders Call Out ‘Algorithmic Exploitation’
The video soon reached political circles. AAP MP Raghav Chadha reshared the clip on X (formerly Twitter), strongly criticising the system.
He described the situation as “systemic exploitation hidden behind apps and algorithms.” Chadha stressed that India’s digital growth cannot come at the cost of underpaid workers. He also called for minimum wage guarantees, social security, and transparency in pay algorithms for gig workers.
Meanwhile, thousands of users echoed similar sentiments, demanding accountability from quick-commerce platforms.
The Hidden Cost of ‘10-Minute Delivery’
The incident has once again highlighted the human cost behind ultra-fast delivery promises. While platforms like Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart continue to expand aggressively, delivery partners often bear the pressure of tight deadlines and unpredictable earnings.
In follow-up videos, Thapliyal Ji clarified that earnings can sometimes reach ₹1,500–₹1,600 on high-demand days. However, such days are inconsistent, making long-term financial planning nearly impossible for workers.
As the debate grows louder, the video stands as a stark reminder: convenience for customers often comes at a heavy personal cost for delivery riders. Calls for stricter regulation of the gig economy are now growing stronger, with many insisting that dignity and fair pay must become non-negotiable.
