Maharashtra Government Implements Strict Verification for Gig Workers Amid Immigration Controversy
The Maharashtra government has introduced a mandatory verification process for gig and delivery workers in response to allegations of illegal immigration. This decision follows claims by BJP leader Kirit Somaiya regarding the infiltration of illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya immigrants into the workforce. The move has sparked significant political debate, particularly with upcoming assembly elections in West Bengal and Assam. Opposition leaders, including Abu Azmi, have criticized the allegations, suggesting that the focus should be on the central government's border security failures rather than targeting low-income workers in Mumbai. This unfolding situation highlights the intersection of immigration issues and political maneuvering in the region.
| Apr 9, 2026, 17:41 IST
Mandatory Verification Process for Gig Workers in Maharashtra
In light of ongoing political disputes regarding the infiltration of illegal immigrants, the Maharashtra government has mandated a stringent verification process for millions of gig and delivery workers in Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Labor Minister Akash Fundkar issued this directive following a joint meeting with the Home Department on April 7, instructing platforms to take full legal responsibility for verifying the identification of workers, moving beyond anonymous recruitment practices.
Political Reactions and Allegations
This order affects delivery partners working with major aggregators such as Swiggy, Zomato, and Blinkit. The initiative was prompted by allegations from BJP leader Kirit Somaiya, who claimed that illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya immigrants were infiltrating the workforce using forged documents. This issue has rapidly escalated into a political matter, becoming a significant topic ahead of the assembly elections in West Bengal and Assam.
Opposition's Response
Opposition leaders have strongly criticized these claims. Abu Azmi from the Samajwadi Party accused Somaiya of engaging in polarizing politics. Azmi argued that if illegal immigration is indeed occurring, it reflects the central government's failure in border security, suggesting that this issue should be addressed directly with Union Home Minister Amit Shah rather than targeting low-income workers in Mumbai.