Hyderabad, Dec. 25 -- Nearly 40,000 delivery workers participated in the first day of the nationwide strike on Thursday, December 25, causing widespread disruptions on Christmas day.

The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) announced a two-day strike in retaliation for unfair practices and exploitation by delivery apps.

"Today's nationwide flash strike has exposed the reality of India's gig economy. When delivery workers raise their voice, platform companies respond with ID blocking, threats, police intimidation, and algorithmic punishment. This is nothing but modern-day exploitation," its founder, Shaik Salauddin, said in a statement. He also serves as the national general secretary of the Indian Federation of App-Based Tra...