Karachi – Popular television host Nida Yasir has issued a public apology following widespread criticism over her recent comments about delivery riders working for Foodpanda. The controversy erupted after Yasir, during a live segment on her morning show, shared an anecdote that many viewers and riders considered offensive and demeaning.
Yasir admitted that her “choice of words” was inappropriate and clarified that she did not intend to generalise or disrespect all delivery riders. She acknowledged that while she was recounting a personal experience, her phrasing came across wrongly and created unnecessary hurt among hardworking gig‑economy workers.
The remarks in question involved claims that some riders intentionally avoid giving correct change so they could earn extra money, and she admitted to occasionally delaying their next delivery to “teach them a lesson.” These statements were met with swift backlash on social media, with viewers and riders expressing outrage at what they considered an unfair and disrespectful generalisation.
In her apology, Yasir emphasised that she should have specified “some people” instead of implying that all delivery riders behave this way. She praised the dedication of those who work long hours under challenging conditions and stressed that she respects the effort and risks riders take to earn a living. “I salute the hardworking riders… I didn’t mean to make light of their struggles,” she said.
The controversy also drew reactions from fellow media personalities. Fiza Ali criticised Yasir’s remarks, reminding the public of the daily hardships faced by delivery riders, including difficult weather, unsafe roads, and low pay. Meanwhile, many Foodpanda riders themselves called for a public apology, stating that the comments misrepresented their work and undermined their efforts to make an honest living.
Beyond the immediate apology, the episode has sparked a broader conversation across social media about the respect and dignity of gig-economy workers in Pakistan. It has also highlighted the responsibility of public figures to communicate thoughtfully about sensitive social issues, particularly when addressing the struggles of individuals in essential service roles.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.