New Delhi, January 4 (IANS). Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha has welcomed the central government’s draft social security rules, which were notified on December 30, 2025, under the Social Security Code, 2020. The Rajya Sabha MP called it an important first step towards recognition, protection and dignity of millions of gig workers and delivery partners.
In a post on social media platform
He further said, “Your voice may not have been heard by these companies (Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit etc.), but the people and government of the country definitely heard it. This is a small victory for you, but an important victory.”
Emphasizing the collective effort, he said in a detailed video message posted on the
Explaining the rules in simple terms, he outlined its main benefits, “First, whether you work part-time or full-time as a gig worker, you will now be formally recognized as a worker. Second, if you work with one platform for at least 90 days in a year, or 120 days in total across multiple platforms, you will become eligible for Social Security benefits.”
He further added, “There will be mandatory registration on a government portal. This will give you a universal account number and a digital ID card, the official government identity of your work. No longer can any company hide behind secret algorithms to erase your identity or block you unfairly. Companies will now be legally required to register all their workers, share accurate data with the government, and update it every three months. No more excuses like ‘we are just a platform’ They will leave, they cannot escape their responsibilities.”
Emphasizing on funding, he said that a dedicated social security fund is being created, in which the platforms will contribute some percentage of their income. This is not charity; This is your perfect retirement and security benefit. A Social Security Board would study the challenges and make plans. These changes open the door to protections like accident insurance, health insurance, life coverage, maternity benefits, old age pension and occupational safety.
Describing gig workers as the ‘invisible wheels that drive India’s economy’, Chadha said that I am in favor of the industry and startups, but I will never be in favor of exploitation. Security is not a privilege. Honor is not a favor. Social Security is not a charity.
The draft follows Chadha’s parliamentary advocacy on recent strikes and workers’ plight. The ministry wants feedback for 30-45 days before it is fully implemented from April 1, 2026, which aims to cover thousands of workers.
–IANS
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