Viral Video: Zomato Delivery Guy Thrashed in Bengaluru

A shocking video showing a Zomato delivery executive being brutally assaulted on a street in Bengaluru’s Bapuji Nagar has gone viral, igniting a firestorm of public outrage and rekindling a critical debate about the working conditions and safety of gig economy workers. The incident, which reportedly took place on September 14, has prompted the Bengaluru police to take swift action after the video circulated widely on social media platforms.

The disturbing footage, captured by an eyewitness, shows a young man in a Zomato uniform being confronted by two men. The altercation reportedly began over a trivial reason: a delayed food delivery. The verbal argument quickly escalated into a physical assault. In the video, the attackers can be seen hitting the delivery agent with objects found on the street, including a plastic container and a chair. At one point, one of the assailants even attempts to climb onto the delivery person’s two-wheeler.

The viral clip has drawn strong condemnation from netizens and the public, with many calling for immediate justice for the assaulted delivery agent. The incident has brought to the forefront the immense pressure faced by gig workers who often navigate congested city traffic, unpredictable weather, and restaurant delays to meet stringent delivery deadlines. The promise of “10-minute deliveries” by many food apps, a key marketing strategy, is now being scrutinized for the immense stress it places on the human beings responsible for fulfilling those promises.

According to a police official, the delivery executive sustained minor injuries in the assault. While police officials arrived at the scene and recorded statements from all parties, the delivery agent initially chose not to file a formal complaint. In the absence of a formal FIR (First Information Report), a Non-Cognisable Report (NCR) was filed. Interestingly, the accused have reportedly filed a counter-complaint, alleging that the delivery person was verbally abusive and behaved aggressively.

However, following the widespread public outcry and the viral nature of the video, the police have taken cognizance of the assault and have initiated an investigation to identify the perpetrators and establish a clearer motive. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of gig workers and the need for greater consumer accountability. It has sparked a crucial conversation about the sustainability of the on-demand delivery model and the ethical considerations that must be addressed to ensure the safety and dignity of the individuals who form the backbone of this industry.