A Delhi man’s recent viral post has brought attention to the often-overlooked discrimination faced by delivery workers, shedding light on how society treats them with disdain, despite their essential role. The man, who decided to become a Blinkit delivery agent for a day, shared a powerful account of his experience, drawing parallels between caste-based untouchability and the disrespect shown to workers in the gig economy.
A Day In The Life Of A Blinkit Delivery Agent
The man enrolled on the Blinkit app and began his day by heading to the nearest store to collect his first order. As he raced against time, battling through the harsh sun, dust, and the chaotic traffic of Delhi, he soon realised that the physical toll of the job was only one part of the struggle. The bigger issue was the social stigma and disrespect that delivery workers face regularly.
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A Bitter Reality: Untouchability Beyond Caste
In his post, the man pointed out that the discrimination faced by delivery workers is a form of untouchability that transcends caste. He noted how even people in air-conditioned cars, presumably belonging to higher social classes, treated him as a second-class citizen. This behaviour, he said, reflects a deep-seated societal bias that continues to dehumanise workers based on their profession, uniform, or appearance.
His viral post, which resonated with many, serves as a reminder that societal attitudes towards service workers need to change. He called for greater awareness and compassion towards delivery executives, urging companies like Blinkit and Zepto to run awareness campaigns that promote dignity and respect.
Raising Awareness For Change
As delivery workers continue to play a vital role in urban life, it is high time that society recognises their humanity. The post has sparked a larger conversation about caste-like discrimination and class division within the gig economy, highlighting how society often treats workers in this field as inferior.
The man’s experience sheds light on the urgent need for a shift in societal attitudes, where every worker, regardless of their profession, is treated with respect and dignity. Only then can we hope for a more equitable and inclusive society.
Cover Image Courtesy: Salman Saleem / LinkedIn