Political Inclination of Zomato and Swiggy Food Delivery Drivers in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, with a focus on the Sonarpur Area

  • Unique Paper ID: 171291
  • Volume: 11
  • Issue: 7
  • PageNo: 3893-3897
  • Abstract:
  • The gig economy has seen a surge in recent years, with food delivery platforms like Zomato and Swiggy becoming increasingly popular in urban and semi-urban areas of West Bengal. The workforce behind these apps, comprising mostly of young delivery executives, has emerged as a distinct demographic segment with its own set of socio-political leanings. This abstract aims to explore the political inclinations of these delivery workers in the South 24 Parganas district, with a particular emphasis on the Sonarpur region.Preliminary observations suggest that a significant portion of the Zomato and Swiggy delivery workforce in South 24 Parganas hails from lower-income backgrounds and semi-urban or rural areas. Many views these gig jobs as a means of supplementing their income or as a stepping stone towards better employment opportunities. This economic reality often shapes their political outlook, with a tendency to gravitate towards parties and ideologies that prioritise issues such as job creation, social welfare, and economic upliftment.Furthermore, the nature of their work, which involves frequent interactions with customers from diverse socio-economic strata, has the potential to influence their political perspectives. Exposure to affluent urban lifestyles may foster resentment towards perceived inequalities, driving some towards more populist or left-leaning ideologies. Conversely, others may embrace more centrist or right-wing views, aspiring for upward mobility and entrepreneurial opportunities. The Sonarpur area, which has a mix of urban and semi-rural demographics, could serve as a microcosm of these broader trends. Local political dynamics, community affiliations, and the presence of influential figures may also play a role in shaping the political leanings of Zomato and Swiggy delivery workers in this region.To gain a comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon, further in-depth research is warranted, employing qualitative methods such as surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews with delivery workers and relevant stakeholders. Such insights could potentially inform policy decisions and initiatives aimed at addressing the concerns and aspirations of this emerging workforce segment.

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