Delivery workers in Kerala report facing growing suspicion after repeated statements by Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala connecting the sector to drug distribution. The gig workforce has expressed worries about intensified police monitoring during the statewide anti-narcotics effort called Operation Toofan: The Narco Hunt.
In recent remarks to the press in Alappuzha and Kochi, the minister cautioned those using delivery roles for narcotics movement to cease or face action. He noted police had received reports of peddlers exploiting food networks to transport substances across the state.
Industry representatives noted cases where individuals misused aggregator uniforms and boxes to avoid scrutiny. V.S. Sunilkumar of the Kerala State Gig Workers Union said genuine workers support action against misuse but face delays from checks that take around ten minutes each. He suggested using more tech-equipped officers to verify orders faster.
Kochi-based worker Thasbeer T.T. described a midnight inspection near Infopark where he had to open his storage box, adding minor inconvenience despite understanding the duty. Another driver, Abhishek Manohar, observed stricter surveillance and occasional dismissive attitudes from officers.
Anonymous sources indicated some peddlers join the sector as cover, blending normal shifts with occasional supply activity, though most participate to earn a living. A senior police official stated the minister’s comments drew from intelligence and assured no undue harassment during operations.
Similar arrests of delivery staff with suspected drugs have occurred in various states over recent years.
