Raghav Chadha Criticises Eternal CEO’s Remarks; Demands Fair Treatment for Gig Workers

A heated debate over the future of India’s gig economy escalated this week after Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha criticised comments made by the CEO of Eternal regarding ongoing protests by food-delivery and gig workers. Chadha’s response reflects growing concern about labour rights in the fast-expanding quick-commerce and delivery platform sector. 

Chadha argued that portraying protesting gig workers as “miscreants” and relying on police deployment to keep platforms running demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the gig work model. He emphasised that while India should be “pro-startups,” it must not be “pro-exploitation.” 

Highlighting the issue of fair treatment, Chadha said that companies have largely succeeded due to the sweat and labour of human workers, not just algorithms, and that delivery partners deserve basic dignity, fair pay, and improved working conditions. His remarks have reignited discussions on the responsibilities of tech platforms toward their workers.

Tension between gig workers and platform companies has been mounting across India, particularly amid recent protests by food delivery riders and quick-commerce partners demanding fair wages, safer conditions, and an end to unrealistic delivery targets. Many workers argue that while platforms tout innovative business models, they often leave frontline workers without social security or adequate compensation. 

Chadha’s stance resonates with broader labour concerns, as he has repeatedly insisted that these workers should be treated as human beings, not disposable data points — a phrase that has become central to his push for reform.

The criticism from Chadha follows comments by platform executives defending current practices and asserting the industry’s growth. Some industry voices argue that focusing too intensely on labour disputes could disrupt quick-commerce services and job creation. Experts have cautioned against politicising the debate, arguing that both innovation and worker protections need thoughtful balancing. 

Public reactions to the exchange have been mixed, with supporters of labour rights lauding Chadha’s intervention and others defending the flexibility and opportunities offered by gig work. The broader conversation highlights the growing pains of India’s digital economy as it grapples with questions of fairness, growth, and social responsibility.