LEGAL FRAMEWORK OF PLATFORM WORKERS: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS

AUTHOR – VISHWANARAYANAN.R* & R.KALAISELVI**

* STUDENT AT VELS INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ADVANCED STUDIES (VISTAS)

** ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AT SCHOOL OF LAW, VELS INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND ADVANCED STUDIES (VISTAS)

BEST CITATION – VISHWANARAYANAN.R & R.KALAISELVI,LEGAL FRAMEWORK OF PLATFORM WORKERS: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (8) OF 2026, PG. 69-72, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

Introduction

The expansion of the digital economy has significantly transformed traditional employment structures, giving rise to platform-based work, commonly referred to as gig work. Platform workers are individuals who provide services through digital intermediaries such as ride-hailing, food delivery, and freelance platforms. Companies like Uber, Swiggy, and Zomato have created flexible work opportunities, enabling individuals to earn income without being bound by conventional employer-employee relationships.

However, this transformation has introduced complex legal challenges. Platform workers are generally classified as independent contractors rather than employees, thereby excluding them from essential labour protections such as minimum wages, job security, and social security benefits. This classification creates ambiguity regarding their rights and obligations. The absence of a comprehensive legal framework has resulted in precarious working conditions for many gig workers.

In India, the enactment of the Code on Social Security, 2020 represents a significant step toward recognizing gig and platform workers. Nevertheless, the law falls short of granting them full employment status, leaving gaps in protection. This article critically examines the legal framework governing platform workers, identifies key challenges, and analyses judicial developments in this evolving field.