The Telangana government has taken a significant step by initiating stakeholder consultations to frame rules for the implementation of the Gig Workers Bill. According to the first draft rules, accessed by TOI, aggregators that repeatedly fail to contribute to the gig workers' welfare fund may face deregistration. Sources confirm that consultations with key stakeholders are already underway.
Key Provisions of the Draft Rules
The draft mandates aggregators to calculate and deposit a monthly welfare fee, up to 2% of payouts made to gig workers. This cost must be borne entirely by the platform and cannot be deducted from workers' earnings. Delays in payment will attract interest and penalties under a graded structure.
Penalty Structure
- First violation: fine of Rs 50,000
- Second offence: Rs 1 lakh
- Third offence: Rs 1.5 lakh
- Subsequent violations: penalties up to five times the unpaid fee, with such offences becoming non-compoundable
Registration Requirements
Another key compliance requirement is mandatory registration with the Telangana Platform-Based Gig Workers Welfare Board. Aggregators must register within 45 days of the Act coming into force, furnishing details such as PAN, GSTIN, service categories and estimated number of gig workers engaged. Failure to register could trigger notices, demands for worker records, recovery of unpaid welfare fees and recommendations for penalties.
Transparency and Worker Safety
The draft rules also stress transparency and worker safety. Platforms will be required to provide emergency helplines, accident insurance, panic buttons and safety training. To ensure enforcement, the state government may appoint officers with powers to inspect records and act against violators.
The final rules are expected within a month after stakeholder feedback. This initiative aims to protect the rights of gig workers and ensure fair practices by aggregators operating in Telangana.
