IAMAI Urges Karnataka to Pause Draft Bill on Gig Workers for More Consultations

The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) has requested the Karnataka government to halt the legislative process on its draft bill for platform-based gig workers. IAMAI highlighted concerns that the bill could negatively impact business operations and urged for more time for stakeholder consultations.

The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) has called on the Karnataka government to pause the legislative process concerning a draft bill on platform-based gig workers. The IAMAI has flagged several concerns, including potential dual levies on social security and uncertainty around the welfare fee contribution. They argue that the bill could negatively affect the ease of doing business in the state.

Key issues outlined by IAMAI include harsh penalties for offenses, unrealistic expectations from aggregators, and significant legal complexities due to the inclusion of gig workers' dispute resolution under the Industrial Disputes Act. The association also expressed concerns over ambiguous welfare fee calculations and challenging data sharing requirements for aggregators.

IAMAI emphasized the need for a transparent and collaborative approach that aligns with existing central government laws, urging the state government to provide a consultation period of 30 to 60 days. They argue that direct government intervention in contractual agreements is unnecessary and potentially harmful.