Chadha Defends Support for Gig Workers Strike Amid Criticism

January 3, 2026

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha has strongly defended his support for the gig workers’ strike, responding to criticism from industry voices over his stance on labour issues in India’s rapidly expanding gig economy. Chadha said he remains pro‑business but will never back exploitation, emphasizing that his support for workers’ rights is about ensuring dignity and fairness for those powering platform‑based services.

Support for Delivery Workers

Chadha’s remarks come after a symbolic nationwide strike by gig and platform workers, including delivery partners from companies like Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit and others, who protested demanding fair wages, better working conditions and social security. He expressed solidarity with striking riders, saying the protest highlighted systemic issues of low pay, long hours and lack of social protection conditions he described as exploitative if left unaddressed.

In a social media post, Chadha criticized how some platforms labelled the striking workers as “miscreants”, turning labour demands into a law-and-order narrative instead of acknowledging legitimate worker concerns. He argued that workers asking for dignity and fair pay are not criminals, and that reliance on police to keep services running reflects deeper structural problems within the gig economy.

Balancing Business and Worker Rights

While reiterating that he supports entrepreneurship and business growth, Chadha made it clear that business interests should never justify worker exploitation. He stressed that companies must treat workers as human beings, not disposable data points, noting that large platform firms succeeded due to the hard labour and sweat of delivery partners.

Chadha has also urged meaningful dialogue between platform management and workers to arrive at equitable solutions. He highlighted that gig workers are the backbone of the quick‑commerce industry and called on companies to engage constructively with their concerns over pay, safety and job security.

Broader Debate and Reactions

The debate around gig worker rights has drawn contrasting reactions. Entrepreneur Sanjeev Bhikchandani and other business leaders have criticized the strike and questioned its organisation, while gig workers and advocates argue that long‑standing issues in the sector must be addressed.

As the conversation continues, Chadha’s comments have positioned him as a vocal advocate for balancing business growth with worker welfare, reflecting broader national discussions on labour rights in the evolving gig economy landscape.