LEGAL FRAMEWORK OF PLATFORM WORKERS: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The expansion of the digital economy has significantly transformed traditional employment structures, giving rise to platform-based work, commonly referred to as gig work. Platform workers are individuals who provide services through digital intermediaries such as ride-hailing, food delivery, and freelance platforms. Companies like Uber, Swiggy, and Zomato have created flexible work opportunities, enabling individuals to earn income without being bound by conventional employeremployee relationships. However, this transformation has introduced complex legal challenges. Platform workers are generally classified as independent contractors rather than employees, thereby excluding them from essential labour protections such as minimum wages, job security, and social security benefits. This classification creates ambiguity regarding their rights and obligations. The absence of a comprehensive legal framework has resulted in precarious working conditions for many gig workers.