A Bengaluru startup founder has backed Zomato’s gig model, sharing how delivery work helped him fund education and build a company.
A Bengaluru-based deep-tech entrepreneur has sparked fresh debate on the future of India’s gig economy after publicly supporting food delivery platform Zomato and its founder Deepinder Goyal, citing his own experience as a former delivery partner.
Suraj Biswas, founder and CEO of Assessli, shared on LinkedIn that he worked as a Zomato delivery partner in Bengaluru during 2020–21. According to Biswas, the income from gig work enabled him to pay college fees, remain financially independent, and eventually launch his startup.
From delivery partner to startup founder
Biswas said he earned around ₹40,000 per month during his time as a delivery partner and personally knew others who earned between ₹80,000 and ₹90,000 monthly. He stressed that such platforms provide accessible income opportunities for students, migrants, and those entering the workforce without extensive formal education.
Describing his journey as one of empowerment rather than hardship, Biswas said the flexibility of gig work allowed him to balance education, personal growth, and entrepreneurial ambitions.
View on 10-minute delivery debate
Amid criticism of quick-commerce and ultra-fast delivery promises, Biswas cautioned against equating gig work with forced labour. He argued that most delivery partners choose the work for its flexibility and are not tied to a single platform.
He noted that many riders work simultaneously across multiple apps, making autonomy a key reason for participation. According to him, rigid employment structures or outright bans could reduce opportunities rather than improve conditions.
Acknowledging risks, calling for balance
Biswas also acknowledged the risks involved in delivery work, including road safety concerns and theft incidents. However, he said platforms like Zomato supported him during difficult situations, reinforcing his belief that the system, while imperfect, can still be enabling.
His post concluded with a call to focus on improving safeguards and systems rather than “romanticising outrage”, advocating for technology-driven solutions that preserve flexibility while enhancing worker protection.
Online reactions divided
The post triggered mixed reactions online. While many praised Biswas for offering a lived perspective, others argued that flexibility must be complemented by stronger social security measures such as insurance, healthcare, and income stability.
The discussion comes at a time when gig worker rights and delivery timelines are under scrutiny across India, including Karnataka, highlighting the need for nuanced, worker-centric policy approaches.