Domestic workers, unions raise alarm over 'Insta Help' apps

WHEN HELP COMES AT RS 49 AN HOUR

- SURUCHI KUMARI

NEW DELHI: For years, Rekha, a migrant from Bihar who has been working as a domestic worker in Malviya Nagar, has built a stable income of around ₹20,000-₹25,000 per month by working in five households.

Despite long hours and juggling demands of different employers, she says, "At least I know the families I work for, and they know me. If I fall sick, they understand. I can ask for help when needed."

But with new app-based services like 'Insta Help' entering the picture, she fears all of that may vanish.

Launched recently by Urban Company, the 'Insta Maid' service—later renamed 'Insta Help' after public criticism—promised to 'deliver' a domestic worker to your doorstep in just 15 minutes, charging users as little as ₹49 per hour.

Although the company clarified that this rate was a promotional offer and not the worker's actual pay, backlash over the terminology and exploitative pricing has not died down.