NGO seeks govt support for deceased gig worker

Jaipur: Civil Society organistation, Soochna Evam Rozgar Adhikar Abhiyan, working for social security and employment of workers, has sought compensation from govt for Rohit Ramani, a gig worker who died in an accident on Sept 13.

Ramani, a 26-year-old Zomato employee, was killed when a speeding car collided with his motorcycle. MKSS is pressing the state govt to provide financial support from the Rs250 crore fund allocated for gig workers in the 2024-25 budget.

"Ramani was the only child of his ailing parents. His father suffers from heart disease, and his mother faces mental health issues. The sudden death has plunged the family into severe financial distress. It's alarming that despite the fund announced by the Bhajan Lal Sharma govt, his family has not been provided any financial relief, highlighting the vulnerabilities of gig workers without adequate social security," said Mukesh Goswami of Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS), a part of Abhiyan.

MKSS also criticised the state govt's delay in implementing Gig and Platform-Based Social Security and Registration Act, 2023 by the former Congress govt.

"If this law had been enacted, Ramani’s family would have received some assistance. We urge the govt to fast-track this crucial legislation to secure social protection for gig workers," said Kamal Tak of MKSS.

The letter demands Rs10 lakh in immediate financial aid for Ramani's parents, creation of a Unique Identification Number (Aadhaar) for them, and an Aadhaar card for his mother to access a special pension for mental disabilities.

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