Noida Workers’ Protest Turns Violent
Vehicles vandalised, police deployed as workers demand wage hike on par with Haryana
GG News Bureau
Noida, 13th April: A massive protest by factory workers in Noida turned violent on Monday, with agitators vandalising vehicles and pelting stones, prompting heavy police deployment in the industrial hub.
The unrest erupted in Phase 2, a key industrial area, where workers from multiple factories gathered to press for higher wages and improved working conditions. Visuals from the spot showed a police vehicle and several other vehicles being damaged during the protest.
Demand for Wage Parity
Workers have been demanding a wage hike, citing the recent decision by the Haryana government to increase minimum wages for unskilled labourers by 35 per cent. Protesters argued that workers in Noida should receive similar pay for comparable work.
Apart from wages, workers also raised concerns over unsafe working environments, lack of weekly offs, and absence of effective grievance redressal mechanisms.
Police Action, Traffic Hit
Police rushed reinforcements to the area and said the situation was being closely monitored. Officials added that minimal force was being used to control the situation while talks were underway with protestors.
The protests led to heavy traffic congestion on key roads during Monday morning rush hours.
CM’s Directive
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that workers must receive fair wages and safe working conditions, but warned that strict action would be taken against anti-social elements attempting to incite violence.
He directed authorities to ensure industrial units comply with labour laws and address workers’ concerns. The state labour department has been asked to initiate talks with stakeholders.
The Chief Minister also cautioned against attempts to disturb law and order, referring to a possible “conspiracy” behind the unrest.
Appeal for Calm
Noida District Magistrate Medha Roopam appealed to workers to maintain peace and not fall prey to rumours, urging them to cooperate with authorities.
Police continue to engage with workers as efforts are underway to restore normalcy in the area.
