The recent suicide of a 19-year-old delivery driver in Chennai, India, has sent shockwaves through the country, prompting renewed focus on the pressures faced by gig workers. Pavithran, a B.Com student, was found dead at his residence on December 11th, 2023. His death was allegedly linked to a heated argument with a customer after a delayed food delivery.
According to reports, Pavithran struggled to locate the customer’s address, leading to a late delivery. The customer, angered by the delay, reportedly scolded Pavithran harshly and even filed a formal complaint against him. The incident escalated two days later when Pavithran, overwhelmed by the situation, allegedly threw a stone at the customer’s residence, breaking a window. This further intensified the conflict, prompting the customer to lodge a police complaint.
Following these events, Pavithran reportedly fell into a deep depression. A suicide note recovered from his home blamed the customer’s harsh words for his distress, stating, “The reason for my death – I went into depression after being scolded by the person during the delivery. More deaths will occur as long as such women exist.”
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the immense pressure faced by individuals working in the gig economy. The often-unpredictable nature of gig work, coupled with the potential for customer dissatisfaction and harsh treatment, can take a significant toll on mental well-being. It underscores the urgent need for better support systems and mental health resources for gig workers, particularly in a country like India where the gig economy is rapidly expanding.
Authorities are currently investigating the matter, and the incident has sparked widespread debate about the responsibility of both customers and employers to ensure the well-being of gig workers.
