Noida: A large-scale protest by industrial workers in Noida spiralled into violence on Monday, prompting a major police crackdown and raising concerns over possible external interference.
What began as a demonstration over wage disparities soon escalated into clashes between protesters and security forces across multiple industrial pockets, including Phase-2 and Sector 63. Officials said thousands of workers gathered at nearly 80 locations, blocking roads and disrupting traffic during peak hours.
The situation worsened when sections of the crowd allegedly resorted to vandalism, setting vehicles ablaze and pelting stones at police personnel. Law enforcement agencies responded by detaining and arresting hundreds of individuals. By evening, more than 300 people had been taken into custody on charges related to arson and destruction of property, while several others were held for questioning.
According to police officials, surveillance footage from industrial units is being examined to identify those involved in the violence. Authorities also claimed that certain individuals from outside the district attempted to incite unrest after the initial protest had largely dispersed peacefully.
Gautam Buddh Nagar Police Commissioner Laxmi Singh stated that efforts are underway to track down those who allegedly provoked the violence. She noted that some suspects have already been detained, with further action expected as the investigation progresses.
Adding a serious dimension to the incident, state authorities have not ruled out the possibility of a larger conspiracy. Anil Rajbhar said agencies are examining whether there are any links to foreign handlers, particularly in light of recent security-related arrests in the region.
The unrest was triggered by discontent among workers over wage differences following a hike in minimum wages in neighbouring Haryana. Many workers in Noida claimed they were being underpaid despite long working hours and demanded better compensation in line with rising living costs.
Protesters alleged that irregular payment practices and extended shifts without adequate pay had pushed them to the streets. However, the Uttar Pradesh government maintained that revised wage structures had already been implemented earlier this month.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath appealed for calm, urging workers not to fall prey to provocation and assuring them that their concerns would be addressed through dialogue. He also emphasised the need to maintain law and order, warning against attempts to disrupt the state’s development.
Meanwhile, opposition leaders, including Akhilesh Yadav, criticised the government, alleging that policies favouring industrialists have led to growing dissatisfaction among labourers.
Authorities said the situation is now under control, though security has been intensified in sensitive areas. A government-appointed committee is expected to engage with workers and industry representatives to address the underlying issues and prevent further unrest.
