Blinkit CEO Criticized Over Gig Worker Wages After Milestone

On New Year's Eve, Blinkit CEO Albinder Dhindsa celebrated the platform's record-breaking delivery performance, sharing statistics on orders per minute, orders per hour, and customer tips. Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Dhindsa revealed that items like 1,22,356 packs of condoms, 45,531 bottles of mineral water, and 22,322 Partysmart tabletswere among the most delivered products, reflecting the festive season's demands.

While the post highlighted Blinkit’s operational achievements, comedian Kunal Kamra shifted attention to the treatment of the platform’s delivery workers. In his response, Kamra questioned, “Can you also share data on the average wages paid to your ‘Delivery Partners’ in 2024?” His remarks spotlighted the broader issue of gig worker rights in India’s growing quick commerce sector.

Kamra criticized the industry for exploiting workers, likening platform owners to “landlords without owning any land.” He further remarked, “While we enjoy the convenience of quick commerce, I’d like my first tweet of 2025 to be about the dark side.”

The comedian’s comments sparked a heated debate on X. Many users echoed concerns about gig worker exploitation by platforms like Blinkit, Zepto, and Zomato, arguing that flexible hours and basic benefits fail to compensate for the high demands of these roles. Others questioned Kamra's own accountability but agreed with his critique of the short-term and unsustainable nature of gig work.

This exchange brings into focus the urgent need to address fair compensation and working conditions for gig workers, who are essential to the rapid growth of India’s e-commerce and quick delivery industry.