The Karnataka platform-based gig workers (Social and Security Welfare) Bill 2024

The Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers (Security and Social Welfare) Bill, 2024, is a landmark initiative proposed by the State Government of Karnataka to regulate the rights and welfare of gig workers in the state. The bill outlines comprehensive provisions to improve social security, transparency, and working conditions for gig workers employed through digital platforms.

Objective of the Bill

The primary goal of the bill is to safeguard the welfare of platform-based gig workers (PBGWs) by offering:

• Social security benefits

• Occupational health and safety

• Automated monitoring and decision-making with no manual bias

• Dispute resolution mechanisms

• Creation of a Welfare Board and Welfare Fund

Who Qualifies as a Gig Worker?

Under the bill, gig workers are defined as individuals who enter into a labour arrangement that provides piece-rate pay based on platform-mediated contracts. This includes workers engaged in services such as:

• Ride-sharing

• Food and grocery delivery

• Logistics

• E-commerce (both marketplace and inventory-based models)

• Healthcare

• Professional services

• Media and content services

• Travel and hospitality

Understanding Key Terms

Platform

A platform is any digital or electronic system that coordinates labour using automated tools to connect a service provider with a customer.

Aggregator

An aggregator is a digital intermediary that enables buyers of goods or services to connect with sellers or service providers, often through an app or online platform.

Formation of the Gig Workers Welfare Board

The bill mandates the establishment of a Welfare Board, composed of:

• Karnataka’s Labour Minister

• Officials from the Labour, IT, and Commercial Taxes departments

• Two representatives of gig workers (appointed by the state government)

• Two aggregator representatives

• One civil society member

• A technical expert (optional)

Functions of the Welfare Board

The Welfare Board will:

• Register all aggregators and PBGWs in the state

• Distribute social security benefits via unique ID-linked accounts

• Monitor welfare fee collection

• Design and execute social security schemes

• Develop special programs for women, people with disabilities, and vulnerable groups

• Establish a consultative committee involving gig worker associations to advise on schemes

Empowering Gig Workers

The bill ensures the empowerment and protection of gig workers through:

• Unique state registration and ID

• Access to grievance redressal mechanisms

• Eligibility for social security benefits based on contributions

• Continued access to benefits under existing labour laws

Fair and Transparent Contracts

The contract between aggregators and gig workers must adhere to state-mandated guidelines, ensuring:

• Gig workers are informed of any changes

• Workers have the right to refuse or decline jobs without penalties, provided valid reasons exist

• Full transparency in contract terms and updates

Transparency in Automated Monitoring Systems

To prevent bias and ensure accountability, the bill mandates:

• Aggregators must disclose how jobs are assigned, evaluated, or refused

• Clarity on how gig workers are categorized and ranked

• Strict data privacy measures

• Assurance of non-discrimination based on religion, caste, gender, race, or birthplace

Dispute Resolution Mechanism

Aggregators employing over 50 PBGWs must establish an Internal Dispute Resolution Committee. Covered disputes include:

• Failure to deliver or communicate contract terms

• Unnotified changes in terms

• Lack of access to information through automated systems

• Terminations not covered by contract terms

Conclusion

The Karnataka Gig Workers Bill, 2024, is a major step toward formalizing and protecting the rights of gig workers. It lays down a strong legal and institutional framework for social security, workplace rights, and data-driven transparency. However, the bill currently lacks detailed coverage of occupational risks, health and safety concerns, and specific working conditions faced by gig workers—areas that will need further attention and clarification.