GIG ECONOMY SHIFTS: SOCIAL CHANGES AND LABOUR DYNAMICS AMONG MARGINALISED COMMUNITIES IN NORTH CHENNAI'S DIGITALISED WORKFORCE

By giving rise to the gig economy, the technological growth of the digital era has reshaped the world of work. Though engaged by the registered companies, gig workers in India are classified as unorganised labourers, a status recognised by the Government of Tamil Nadu. This study explores the social changes affecting marginalised communities involved in platform-based occupations (e.g., Swiggy, Rapido) in North Chennai. Using a qualitative case study approach with ten in-depth interviews, observation, and document analysis, the research reveals significant power imbalances and a policy–practice disconnect. Findings show that while gig work enables higher daily earnings, yet it comes with long-term insecurity and lack of savings. Applications algorithms impose workers into “forced labour,” pushing them to remain continuously available during peak hours and weekends, causing both physical strain and family conflict. Despite awareness of state welfare schemes (e.g., e-scooter subsidy, insurance), workers reported ineffective implementation, communication gaps, and delays in accessing benefits. customers ill- treatments further expose the absence of formal grievance mechanisms, highlighting a modern form of exploitation where corporations profit from a vulnerable, unorganised workforce. The study raises for multi-pronged interventions, including reducing commissions or raising fees by platforms, strengthening government implementation and communication of social security measures, and exploring publicly run gig platforms that ensure fair practices. Overall, this research provides localised evidence on the precarious realities of gig workers in North Chennai and offers actionable insights to promote fair and sustainable livelihoods for marginalised digital workers in urban India. Key words: Digitalisation, Gig Economy, Labour Precarity, Marginalised Communities, Chennai, Platform Economy, Social Security Gaps, Tamil Nadu, Unorganised Workers, Welfare Implementation.