Amazon workers in India have joined a global wave of Black Friday strikes, demanding better wages and improved working conditions as the e-commerce giant gears up for one of its busiest shopping weekends.
In New Delhi, approximately 200 warehouse workers and delivery drivers gathered under the “Make Amazon Pay” campaign. Protesters wore masks resembling Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, symbolically uniting against the Seattle-based corporation’s labor practices.
The strike, mirrored by protests at Amazon facilities in other countries, calls for increased wages, safer working environments, and union recognition.
Manish Kumar, a 25-year-old warehouse employee, criticized the current monthly salary of 10,000 rupees ($120), stating, “It should be at least 25,000 rupees ($295). The pressure at work is overwhelming.”
Union leader Nitesh Das emphasized the need for government intervention, adding that the protests aim to amplify workers’ voices.
Amazon India responded by accusing the protesters of spreading misinformation. “Our facilities offer competitive pay, safe working environments, and modern infrastructure,” the company said in a statement, noting its contribution to over 1.5 million global jobs.
The Amazon India Workers Union announced plans for additional protests across India and internationally, including in the U.S., Germany, Japan, and Brazil. The union’s demands include fair wages, union rights, and environmental accountability. A memorandum of demand will also be presented to India’s Labor Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya.
This strike highlights ongoing challenges in India’s growing gig economy, where workers often endure low pay and challenging conditions. Last year, India’s National Human Rights Commission issued a notice to Amazon after reports alleged workers were denied breaks during extreme heat. Amazon denied the claims.
The global “Make Amazon Pay” campaign continues to put pressure on the retail giant as workers advocate for better treatment across its operations.
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