“STRIKING A BALANCE: WORKER RIGHTS AND CONSTITUTIONAL CHALLENGES IN GIG WORK REGULATION”
AUTHORS –MR. SAGAR DUTTA & MISS. KASHAFF SALIM, STUDENTS OF ST. XAVIER’S UNIVERSITY,KOLKATA
BEST CITATION – MR. SAGAR DUTTA & MISS. KASHAFF SALIM, “STRIKING A BALANCE: WORKER RIGHTS AND CONSTITUTIONAL CHALLENGES IN GIG WORK REGULATION”, SUPREME COURT JUDGEMENT REPORTER, 3 (1) OF 2025, PG. 01-09, APIS – 3920-0011 | ISSN – 2583-8016.
INTRODUCTION TO THE GIG ECONOMY
The gig economy represents a transformative shift in the way work is organized and delivered in the modern labor market. At its core, the gig economy consists of short-term, flexible jobs often facilitated by digital platforms that connect workers with clients or consumers. Gig work is characterized by its reliance on technology, decentralization, and the absence of traditional employment structures. Workers in the gig economy often perform tasks such as delivering food, driving passengers, or offering freelance services in fields like graphic design and content writing. These tasks are typically arranged on a per-job or per-task basis, with payments determined accordingly. Globally, the gig economy has witnessed exponential growth in recent years. [1]This expansion is attributed to advancements in technology, changes in consumer preferences, and the increasing desire for flexible working arrangements. As of today, gig economy businesses like Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, Upwork, and Fiverr dominate various sectors, ranging from transportation and logistics to professional services. This growing sector contributes significantly to the economy by creating income opportunities for millions, yet it also challenges existing labor and regulatory frameworks. The convenience and accessibility of gig work have made it appealing to workers and consumers alike, but questions regarding the sustainability of such a model continue to emerge.[2]
[1] Team I. What is a gig economy? Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/g/gig-economy.asp. Published July 22, 2024.
[2] Lord C, Bates O, Friday A, et al. The sustainability of the gig economy food delivery system (Deliveroo, UberEATS and Just-Eat): Histories and futures of rebound, lock-in and path dependency. International Journal of Sustainable Transportation. 2022;17(5):490-502. doi:10.1080/15568318.2022.2066583