Gig workers call nationwide shutdown over fuel price hike, low pay rates

Gig workers across India have called for a temporary nationwide strike on Saturday from 12 pm to 5 pm to protest rising fuel prices and low payment rates.

The Gig and Platform Services Workers Union (GIPSWU) urged app-based cab drivers and delivery workers to stop services during the protest period.

Petrol and diesel prices were increased by around Rs 3 per litre, pushing petrol in Delhi close to Rs 97.77 per litre and diesel to Rs 90.67 per litre.

In Hyderabad, petrol prices crossed Rs 110 per litre, while diesel prices rose to nearly Rs 99 per litre after the latest revision.

Gig workers say rising fuel costs are cutting deeply into their earnings as app companies have not raised fares enough to offset the increased expenses.

Fuel prices surged amid global energy supply disruptions linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, with crude oil prices rising from around $70 to over $105 per barrel.

Oil companies indicated that further fuel price increases may happen depending on government approval, while workers say their livelihoods are under growing financial strain.