Amazon Warehouse Workers in Pune, Mumbai Announce Strike Over Unfulfilled Agreement
Pune, 10th February 2025: Workers at Amazon warehouses in Pune and Mumbai have announced a work stoppage protest on February 10, citing non-implementation of a previously signed agreement. The protest, organized by the Hamal Panchayat, is a response to the company’s failure to provide promised benefits under the Mathadi system, despite an agreement signed three months ago.
The workers, employed through Amazon’s contractor company, Vaishali Transcarriers, have been facing low wages and a lack of social security benefits for the past four years. Following persistent follow-ups by the Hamal Panchayat with government agencies, an agreement was reached between the workers and the company. The Maharashtra State Labour Department was also involved in the process. However, with no action taken even after three months, workers say they have been left with no choice but to protest.
“The company has ignored the workers’ legitimate demands even after signing an agreement. This continuous disregard has forced the workers to take this step,” said Chandan Kumar, the protest coordinator.
The issue of worker exploitation extends beyond Amazon warehouse employees. With the rise of online service providers, the gig workforce has expanded significantly. According to NITI Aayog estimates, India currently has around 8 million gig workers, a number projected to reach 23.5 million by 2029-30.
Despite their growing numbers, gig workers remain largely unrecognized, lacking both legal protections and social security. While companies benefit from their labor, the government has yet to provide a strong framework for their rights. In a step toward addressing this gap, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently announced formal recognition for gig workers in the latest Union Budget.
