Dear Editor
I am writing to express my appreciation for the timely article titled “Gig Workers: Heightened capitalist exploitation” published in MEL web on 21st May’23. I would like to commend MEL for raising important concerns regarding the conditions of gig workers and shedding light on the problems they face in the gig economy. It is crucial that we educate the masses about these issues to foster a deeper understanding and drive militant revolutionary change.
The article aptly highlights how gig workers are often subject to exploitative working conditions. In my personal view the providing of laptops and gadgets to workers can be compared to a leash around a dog’s neck, emphasizing the control and exploitation by the masters.
As mentioned in the article one of the primary driving factors behind the expansion of the gig economy is the rising unemployment and the lack of regular employment opportunities. It is disheartening to know that many skilled workers, who once earned decent salaries, have lost their jobs due to companies downsizing or shutting down operations. Sadly, the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have further exacerbated this situation, leaving workers with no choice but to enter the gig economy, often earning significantly lower incomes than before.
Gig workers, particularly those involved in delivery services which make up the bulk of the gig work force, face numerous challenges. The insecurity of livelihood, irregular working hours, and the pressure to maximize productivity often take a toll on their health, family life, and social well-being. Accidents resulting from road pressures and the burden of owning a vehicle to perform gig work further compound their difficulties. This is nothing but modern-day slavery as is rightly said in the article.
It is imperative that we recognize the gig economy as a system of heightened capitalist exploitation. Spokespersons of the bourgeoisie cunningly promote it as an innovative solution or highlight the flexibility it offers to workers, but the reality is that gig workers are denied fundamental rights and protections.
Only a unified working class in alliance with the peasantry and other oppressed sections of the society, with political power in its hands can solve the problems of all the workers including gig workers.
Once again, I would like to thank MEL for shedding light on the pressing concerns surrounding gig workers. It is my hope that this article will generate further awareness and initiate meaningful discussions on how we can create a fair and just system for all workers. We all must take responsibility to spread it widely.
Sincerely,
Jeet