AAP MP Calls for Scrapping of 10-Minute Delivery Model

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha has ignited a national debate on the ethics of quick commerce, demanding an outright ban on 10-minute delivery services in the country.

Speaking during the Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha on Friday, Raghav termed the practice a form of “cruelty” toward gig workers, who are forced to risk their lives under extreme pressure to meet unrealistic deadlines.

The Tyranny of Speed of 10-Minute Delivery Model

Raghav specifically targeted quick commerce players like Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit, and Zepto, arguing that they built their billion-dollar valuations upon the exploitation of a silent workforce.

He highlighted the immense psychological and physical toll of the ultra-fast delivery model.

The MP pointed out that delivery personnel constantly fear app-mandated penalties—including rating drops, incentive cuts, app logouts, and ID blocks—if they are delayed even by a few minutes.

This algorithmic pressure, he stressed, compels riders to overspeed, jump red lights, and endanger themselves and others on the road.

Invisible Wheels of the Economy

Describing the delivery executives, as well as drivers for ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber, as the “invisible wheels of the Indian economy,” Raghav passionately appealed to the House to acknowledge their humanity.

“I want to tell you that these people are not robots. They are also someone’s father, husband, brother, or son. The House should think about them, and the cruelty of this 10-minute delivery should end,” he asserted.

Demand for Comprehensive Social Security

Beyond the dangers of speed, Raghav highlighted two other critical challenges faced by gig workers: dangerous working conditions and customer harassment.

He noted that these workers often toil for 12 to 14 hours daily in harsh weather conditions without basic necessities like protective gear, health insurance, or accident coverage.

Their situation, he argued, is worse than that of daily wage labourers or factory workers, as they lack permanent employment and legally guaranteed benefits.

Raghav urged the government to implement clear regulations, mandate comprehensive social security, and set enforceable limits on delivery timelines to ensure humane working conditions and dignity for the workforce.

While India’s Social Security Code, 2020, formally recognises gig workers, its full implementation and the establishment of welfare boards remain slow, leaving workers reliant on limited, company-specific protections.

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