Blinkit Rider’s ₹15 Payout Sparks National Outrage

New Delhi, December 17, 2025: A sobering look into the realities of quick commerce has been provided by a viral video from a Blinkit delivery partner, sparking a massive debate across India regarding fair wages and “algorithmic exploitation.” The footage, shared by a delivery executive identified as Thapliyal Ji from Uttarakhand, reveals a detailed breakdown of a grueling workday in Delhi, where he earned less than the price of a cup of tea for a single delivery.

A 15-Hour Workday Is Documented

The viral video, which has amassed over 7 million views as of December 2025, features Thapliyal Ji sharing screenshots directly from his Blinkit partner app to substantiate his claims. The data presented in the clip paints a stark picture of the gig economy’s current state.

It was revealed that after 15 hours of relentless work, the rider managed to complete 28 deliveries. His total earnings for the day amounted to just ₹763, including all applicable incentives. Most shockingly, a screenshot of his final order of the shift showed a payout of a mere ₹15.83. When calculated, his average hourly income was found to be approximately ₹52 per hour, a figure that many have noted is barely enough to cover rising fuel costs and basic meals.

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Political Leaders and Netizens Slam “Systemic Exploitation”

The footage has caught the attention of prominent figures, including Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha, who shared the video on X (formerly Twitter). The situation was described by Chadha as “systemic exploitation hidden behind apps and algorithms.” He emphasized that India’s digital progress should not be built on the backs of underpaid and overworked individuals, calling for fair wages and social security to be made non-negotiable for gig workers.

The Human Cost of “10-Minute” Promises

The viral video has reignited the debate over the ethics of “10-minute delivery” models. While platforms like Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart continue to expand, the pressure on delivery partners to meet strict deadlines for low compensation has been identified as a growing crisis.

In subsequent videos, Thapliyal Ji noted that while earnings can occasionally reach ₹1,600 on high-demand days, the unpredictable nature of the gig makes it difficult for workers to plan their lives or escape the cycle of poverty. As the video continues to trend, it serves as a powerful testament to the hidden human cost behind the convenience of a single click. The incident has intensified calls for stricter regulation of the gig economy to ensure that those who power India’s digital revolution are treated with the dignity and financial fairness they deserve.