Zepto Delivery Employee Assaulted in Delhi Showroom Over Perfume Use
Police officials in Delhi reported a disturbing incident involving a delivery employee and a showroom owner. The altercation occurred at a Zepto store in the Kondli area. According to authorities, the showroom owner allegedly restrained and assaulted the delivery worker. The dispute reportedly started over the employee using perfume inside the store premises.
Victim Identified as 18-Year-Old Risha Kumar
The injured delivery employee has been identified as Risha Kumar. He is eighteen years old and the son of Lalla Babu. Kumar resides in Harijan Basti near Ambedkar Park in Old Kondli. Police confirmed his identity after receiving information about the assault.
The entire incident was captured on closed-circuit television cameras. The CCTV footage quickly went viral across various social media platforms. In the video, the delivery employee is seen being forced to pose like a rooster before the physical assault begins. The store owner appears to be the primary aggressor in the clip.
Political Party Raises Concerns About Gig Worker Safety
The Indian National Congress shared the viral video on its social media channels. The political party expressed serious concerns about the treatment and safety of gig economy workers in India. In a strongly worded post, the INC questioned whether delivery workers deserve basic human dignity.
"Isn't the delivery boy human too?" the Congress post asked. "At a Kondli-based Zepto store in Delhi, gig worker Rishav Kumar was brutally beaten after being forced to act like a rooster. The hands that run for our convenience every day are now insecure themselves. When will gig workers finally get justice, security, and respect?"
Police Take Action, Legal Proceedings Begin
Delhi police took immediate cognisance of the incident after becoming aware of the assault. Law enforcement officials have initiated necessary action against those involved. Legal proceedings under relevant laws have been formally registered with local authorities.
Police officials confirmed that further investigation into the matter is currently ongoing. They are examining all available evidence, including the viral CCTV footage and witness statements. The showroom owner faces potential charges for restraint and assault.
Incident Follows Recent Nationwide Delivery Worker Strike
This assault comes just days after platform-based delivery workers across India observed a nationwide strike. The December 31st protest was organized by workers affiliated with the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers.
Delivery employees participated in the strike to protest several pressing issues. Their demands included better wages, improved working conditions, and enhanced social security measures. The IFAT represents thousands of app-based transport and delivery workers throughout the country.
The timing of this assault highlights the ongoing challenges faced by gig economy workers in India. Many delivery employees work long hours with minimal protections and uncertain working conditions. This incident has renewed discussions about worker safety and dignity in the rapidly growing delivery sector.
