SOCIAL SECURITY IN THE GIG ECONOMY: ANALYSING THE INCLUSIVENESS OF INDIA’S LABOUR CODES

AUTHOR – SAKEE.N, STUDENT AT SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE IN LAW THE TAMILNADU DR AMBEDKAR LAW UNIVERSIY, CHENNAI

BEST CITATION – SAKEE.N, SOCIAL SECURITY IN THE GIG ECONOMY: ANALYSING THE INCLUSIVENESS OF INDIA’S LABOUR CODES, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (5) OF 2026, PG. 360-367, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

ABSTRACT

The rapid growth of the gig economy has fundamentally altered traditional employment relationships, creating new legal challenges in extending social security protections to non-standard workers. Gig and platform workers, engaged through digital intermediaries, often remain outside the scope of conventional labour welfare mechanisms. In India, the introduction of the Code on Social Security, 2020 marks a significant step towards recognising these workers within the formal legal framework.

This study critically examines the inclusiveness of India’s labour codes in providing social security to gig workers, focusing on statutory provisions, contribution mechanisms, and implementation frameworks. It evaluates whether the Code effectively ensures access to benefits such as insurance, pensions, and welfare schemes, or merely offers symbolic recognition without enforceable rights.

Through a doctrinal analysis of legislative provisions and judicial principles relating to labour welfare and right to livelihood, the research identifies key gaps in enforcement, coverage, and accountability. The study concludes that while the Code represents progressive intent, its practical impact remains limited due to structural and administrative challenges, thereby necessitating stronger legal mechanisms to ensure meaningful protection for gig workers.

KEYWORDS

Gig Economy, Social Security, Platform Workers, Labour Codes, Informal Employment, Welfare Schemes, Worker Protection