Scale of Gig Worker Exits
Zomato terminates close to 5,000 gig workers every month due to fraud-related issues, while another 1.5–2 lakh delivery partners exit the platform voluntarily, according to Deepinder Goyal, founder and chief executive officer of parent firm Eternal.
Voluntary Attrition a Key Factor
Speaking on a video podcast with YouTuber Raj Shamani, Goyal said a large share of delivery partners view gig work as temporary in nature. As a result, voluntary attrition remains high, with many workers using food delivery as a short-term income option rather than long-term employment.
Context of Recent Worker Protests
Goyal’s comments come shortly after gig workers across food delivery and quick commerce platforms, including Zomato, staged protests on New Year’s Eve. Worker unions cited concerns around low pay, lack of social security and absence of formal labour protections. The protests reignited debate over working conditions in India’s expanding gig economy.
Company’s Stand on Earnings and Welfare
Responding to criticism, Goyal said Zomato provides insurance cover in case a delivery partner dies in an accident and also extends job opportunities to family members. He added that a delivery partner working 8–10 hours a day for six days a week can earn upwards of ₹25,000 per month, depending on location and demand.
Fraud on Both Sides
Goyal acknowledged that fraud is not limited to delivery partners and said customers also engage in fraudulent behaviour in some cases. To address this, Zomato has implemented an internal ‘Karma’ system that rates both customers and delivery partners. In the event of disputes, the company evaluates the credibility of both sides, though Goyal noted that Zomato absorbs losses in 50–70 percent of such cases.
Capital and Investor Communication
On fundraising, Goyal said the company has avoided making earnings projections to investors, choosing instead to focus discussions on market size and long-term opportunity.
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