Algorithmic Governance, Local Government Regulation, And Sustainable Labour Policy: A Structural Equation Modelling Approach To Gig Delivery Workers In South India

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital labour platforms has transformed urban employment through algorithmic management, creating new governance challenges for local governments responsible for ensuring equitable labour standards and sustainable urban development. While previous research has primarily examined the influence of algorithmic management on worker well-being, limited attention has been given to the role of local self-government institutions in regulating platform-based employment. This study develops and validates a governance-oriented framework that examines the relationships among algorithmic governance, local government regulatory effectiveness, platform accountability, worker trust, and sustainable employment in the delivery gig sector in Chennai, India. Data will be collected from approximately 350–450 delivery gig workers operating across major digital platforms using a structured questionnaire. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) with AMOS will be employed to evaluate both direct and indirect relationships among the proposed constructs. The study proposes that effective local government regulation strengthens platform accountability, enhances worker trust, and promotes sustainable employment practices while improving urban labour governance. The findings are expected to provide empirical evidence for policymakers and municipal administrations seeking to develop balanced regulatory frameworks that protect gig workers without constraining digital innovation. The research contributes to the literature on algorithmic governance, local self-government, digital public administration, and sustainable urban labour policy by offering a governance framework for managing platform-based employment in rapidly urbanising economies.