Violent Noida Workers’ Protest Sparks Clashes, Vehicles Vandalised Over Wage Demands

A large-scale protest by factory workers in Noida turned violent on Monday, with demonstrators vandalising vehicles and clashing with police, leading to widespread disruption across key industrial areas.

The unrest broke out in Phase 2, a major industrial hub, where workers gathered to demand higher wages and improved working conditions. Visuals from the scene showed damaged vehicles, including a police van, as protesters resorted to stone-pelting while authorities attempted to control the situation.

Police forces were quickly deployed in large numbers to contain the violence and prevent further escalation. The protests also triggered severe traffic congestion, leaving commuters stranded for hours during the morning rush.

The agitation has been building over the past few days, primarily driven by demands for a wage hike. Workers cited the recent decision by the Haryana government to increase minimum wages for unskilled labourers by 35 per cent, arguing that workers in Uttar Pradesh deserve similar pay for comparable work. In addition to wages, they raised concerns over unsafe working environments, lack of weekly offs, and inadequate grievance mechanisms.

Responding to the situation, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasised that workers should receive fair pay and safe working conditions. However, he also directed authorities to take strict action against those attempting to incite violence or disrupt law and order.

Police officials stated that senior officers are closely monitoring the situation and engaging with protesters to restore calm. Authorities have urged people not to fall for rumours and assured that only minimal force is being used to manage the unrest.

The state labour department has been instructed to initiate dialogue with industrial units and worker representatives, as the government seeks to address grievances while maintaining order in the region.