Telangana Enacts Landmark Law for Gig Workers, Joins Rajasthan as Second State with Dedicated Protections

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla has granted approval to Telangana's groundbreaking legislation aimed at safeguarding platform-based workers, marking a significant milestone for the state's gig economy workforce.

The state has adopted the Telangana Platform Based Gig Workers (Protection of Labour and Regulation of Employment) Act, 2026, positioning itself as only the second state in India to establish comprehensive legal protections for delivery workers, cab drivers, and other platform-based workers. Rajasthan preceded Telangana with similar legislation.

The timing of this legislative achievement coincides with May Day celebrations, underscoring the government's commitment to workers' rights. Officials announced that the gazette notification will be released on Friday, formally operationalizing the law.

The legislation encompasses workers employed through major platforms including Uber, Ola, Swiggy, and Zomato. It establishes a framework of mandatory protections that includes accident insurance, health insurance, and pension schemes for workers and their dependents. The law also stipulates minimum wage requirements and comprehensive labour protection standards.

Significantly, the act restricts platform companies from terminating workers arbitrarily. The legislation incorporates safeguards regarding gratuity entitlements and contract security, ensuring workers have recourse against unjust dismissal.

Worker unions have expressed appreciation for the legislative development, commending the government's initiative in advancing worker welfare.

Approximately 4.5 lakh gig workers across Telangana are anticipated to benefit from the new law's provisions. The state government plans to issue detailed implementation guidelines within 10 to 15 days, allowing stakeholders time to prepare for compliance and rollout.