Blinkit workers in Varanasi go on strike over fair pay and heat safety measures

Blinkit workers in Varanasi who went on strike to demand fair pay and safer working conditions during India’s extreme summer heat had their IDs blocked by the platform, claimed the Gig & Platform Service Workers Union (GIPSWU).

About 150 Blinkit workers in Shri Ram Colony, Varanasi, went on strike on April 26, per the union. Their demands included an end to mandatory work between 12 PM and 4 PM due to the extreme heat, the provision of shaded waiting areas with drinking water and fans, and cotton uniforms for the summer.

“On April 27, 2025, a company representative threatened the striking workers with police action and demanded they sign affidavits vowing to never strike again. The workers remain resolute in their demands,” said GIPSWU on its website.

The union claimed that Blinkit management blocked the IDs of around 150 workers, due to their strike.

GIPSWU called the move “unconstitutional” and shared photos and videos of the striking workers, who are seen chanting in Hindi, “Fulfill our demands, stop our exploitation, and long live labour unions!”

As India heads into a scorching hot summer, gig workers and quick commerce delivery professionals who travel long distances by bike in high temperatures face the risk of heat-related health conditions or even heat death.

“All over the world, gig workers are expected to rush through extreme heat, rain, and snow with no breaks for food or water or bathroom... all for a 10 minute delivery...” said GIPSWU in a post.

Blinkit is yet to officially respond to the strike.