On December 5, 2025, Raghav Chadha MP with Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) stood in the Rajya Sabha and demanded an end to the 10-minute delivery model pushed by quick-commerce platforms such as Blinkit, Zepto and others. He called the model “cruelty,” arguing that it puts gig workers’ lives at risk in the name of consumer convenience. He painted a grim picture riders forced to deliver within 10–15 minutes. Pressured to overspeed, jump red lights or weave through Bangalore and Mumbai traffic to avoid penalties. Missing deadlines by even 5–7 minutes can lead to poor ratings, loss of incentives, or even account deactivation.
Beyond speed, Raghav Chadha pointed out that many delivery workers log 12–14 hour shifts in extreme heat, rain. Polluted conditions often without proper protective gear, health cover or insurance. He urged lawmakers to consider a ban on ultra-fast delivery models, warning that no form of convenience for customers should come at the cost of workers safety.
Recent reporting from gig-worker unions and media investigations lends weight to Raghav Chadha arguments. A study by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) interviewed 60 delivery and service workers. It found that 45 percent had experienced arbitrary account suspensions. 66 percent reported poorly functioning grievance systems, and 56 percent said they could not reach company support when problems arose. Many described a lack of health insurance, paid leave or accident coverage. Broader research into gig-economy labour conditions in India and globally repeatedly flags the same issues. Excessive working hours, unstable pay, unsafe road conditions, algorithmic management, and lack of social protections for workers classified as independent contractors rather than employees.
For companies running quick-commerce apps, ultra-fast delivery may look like a competitive edge. For many users, it’s a convenience they come to expect. But behind that speed lies a human cost that often goes unseen. Delivery agents are more than just couriers they are family members. Individuals risking their lives in traffic, under pressure from ratings and deadlines they did not choose. If the 10-minute delivery model remains unchecked, it risks normalizing a system where speed becomes the ultimate priority, overriding everything else safety, dignity, rights. There is also a broader pattern: app-based workers across sectors face arbitrary suspensions, weak grievance mechanisms, and minimal social security or protections.
Policymakers and regulators must step in. This could involve – Banning or restricting ultra-fast delivery promises when they incentivize unsafe work. Mandating minimum social protection standards for gig workers health cover, accident insurance, fair wages, regulated working hours. Enforcing transparent grievance and rating systems so workers are not disproportionately penalized for minor delays beyond their control. Recognizing gig workers as workers under labour laws rather than contractors, giving them access to the same rights and protections as traditional employees.
