Food delivery boys set to form union

Thiruvananthapuram: The food delivery boys in the state have decided to form a trade union in the wake of the exploitation they face from the companies they work for. The decision was taken following the three-day strike carried out by the delivery executives of Uber Eats in Thiruvananthapuram.

“Since this is a new job in Kerala, we are in the unorganized sector. There is no one to speak for us when the companies are exploiting us. This was the main reason why we have now planned to create a union for delivery executives belonging to all the companies,” said A Sudarshanan, delivery executive from Thiruvananthapuram and one among the conveners who are spearheading to form a trade union.

“I am a handicapped man and this job is my livelihood. It’s high time that we function as an organized body because there is no one to listen to our grievances and talk on our behalf,” said Albin Robinson, a delivery executive. The delivery chain boys were speaking to reports at a press conference convened here on Monday.

Sirajuddin, another executive revealed that adults ranging from the age of 18 to nearly 70 years engage in the delivery service. “For many it is a full time job and for others it is a part time job. There are students who are struggling to make ends meet. So, we believe forming a union will benefit all these people and they will have a platform on which will listen to their problems,” he said.

They also said that once the union is formed, they will try to get support from delivery boys working in other states. “We want to make this union national level and free from political affiliations. The discussions regarding the formation of this union are underway. I will assure you one thing, this union will not be affiliated to any political party. Delivery executives belonging to all companies, parties, caste and creed will be admitted and made part of this organization,” said Santhosh, a delivery executive.