Workers at Blinkit in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, organized a protest to obtain proper wages and improved working conditions and summer uniforms made of cotton. About 150 gig workers stopped their operations on April 26, 2025 because they felt mistreated while being forced to work during the hottest time of day. The Gig and Platform Services Workers Union (GIPSWU) reported that Blinkit which is owned by Zomato blocked worker IDs while forcing them to sign agreements through threatened police action.
The delivery executives requested an end to mandatory 12–4 pm shifts and higher wages together with shaded rest areas and drinking water access. According to GIPSWU Blinkit forced workers to sign blank documents and record video statements of acceptance without any official company approval.
Social media posts showed that Blinkit implements an incentive system which forces workers to deliver a large number of packages within specific time periods. A Reddit user who used to work for the company explained that riders need to work at least three hours in both the 12–4 pm and night shifts to receive daytime incentives yet the schedule remains both demanding and inflexible.
GIPSWU distributed images which depicted Blinkit workers wearing yellow uniforms while displaying protest signs about reported harassment. On April 27 Blinkit representatives threatened police intervention against workers unless they signed documents stating they would never organize strikes again.
The workers continue to maintain their position despite the intense pressure they face. Through their advocacy work GIPSWU fights for fair treatment and seeks an end to retaliatory measures against workers who speak out.
