- By Shailvee Tiwari
- Tue, 22 Apr 2025 03:30 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
LinkedIn Viral Post: Salman Saleem, Creative Head at the influencer marketing firm Vibes Network in Delhi, took a unique approach to understanding the struggles of gig workers by spending a day as a Blinkit delivery partner. His goal was simple — to experience the reality of their daily grind.
What he encountered, however, opened his eyes to the harsh truth about the treatment of delivery workers in India. “Untouchability isn’t limited only to caste. This profession is still struggling to earn its rightful dignity,” he shared in a LinkedIn post that has since gone viral.
Throughout his day, Saleem dealt with the typical challenges like Delhi’s traffic and scorching heat, but it was the everyday discrimination that left a lasting impact. From being turned away at building entrances to being denied access to main elevators, Saleem’s experience revealed how delivery workers are often treated as second-class citizens.
“I was either asked to take the stairs, sometimes up to the 4th floor, or use the service lift. These are the same so-called rich and educated people who vocalise their opinions against all forms of discrimination on social media,” he noted.
Saleem made a powerful call to action, urging society to recognise the humanity of delivery workers. “As a society, we need to understand that delivery executives are just as human as everyone else. We must stop making assumptions about someone’s character, status, or worth based on their uniform or appearance. Everyone deserves respect, regardless of their profession,” he stated.
He also encouraged companies like Blinkit and Zepto to step up. “It’s high time grocery delivery companies…run awareness campaigns about the discrimination delivery workers face. These campaigns can help promote kindness and dignity.”
Watch The Viral Post:
The viral post, shared three days ago, caught the attention of many users. One user wrote, "Every citizen must serve in the army to learn discipline and accountability." "Well said, Salman. I have observed how societies treat delivery guys. They don’t allow maids, delivery guys to use lifts meant for residents. Double standards and hypocrisy should be named and shamed," a second user added.
"Thanks for these insights, Salman. Our condo too has a separate lift with a signboard saying “only for labour”. Upon eyeing a suitable opportunity, I intend to challenge this practice by taking it up with the authorities," added a third user. "Well said, Salman, the delivery agents have to go through such daily, and it is tough, the only way we can contribute is to appreciate their efforts and be kind to them," added another user.
