Karnataka Moves to Protect Gig Workers' Rights

The Karnataka Legislative Assembly has taken a significant step in protecting the rights of platform-based gig workers by passing a comprehensive Bill on Tuesday. The legislation, named the Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Bill, 2025, is designed to enhance the welfare of gig workers, targeting their social security, occupational health, and safety.

A key feature of the Bill is the introduction of a welfare fee ranging from 1 to 5 percent on each transaction made by the workers, affecting various categories of aggregators or platforms. These fees are intended to fund a dedicated welfare board and a welfare fund aimed at supporting gig workers.

The Bill also mandates transparency in automated monitoring systems and dispute resolution processes. It prohibits the termination of gig workers without a 14-day notice period and valid written reasons. The Assembly passed additional related legislation to address municipal regulation, ports, essential services maintenance, and cooperative management.

(With inputs from agencies.)