Stones Pelted, Vehicles Set On Fire: Why Protests By Noida Workers Turned Violent
Violence broke out in Phase 2 of Noida in Uttar Pradesh after a large number of workers gathered to demand a pay rise. It is still unclear whether the protesters belonged to one company, multiple offices, or a wider association. PTI said, the protest was organised by a labour union. The unrest also caused heavy traffic disruption in the area.
During the protest, vehicles and properties were damaged and stones were thrown, creating chaos on the streets. Police teams reached the spot quickly and deployed a heavy force to control the situation. Tear gas was used to disperse the crowd as tensions escalated.
Workers’ key demands
The workers raised several issues during the protest. Their demands included bonus payments, weekly days off, overtime wages and timely payment of salaries. They also called for the creation of a sexual harassment committee, a grievance redressal cell, and proper salary slips for employees.
What District Magistrate said?
A day before the violence, the Noida District Magistrate had held an important meeting at the Noida Authority to maintain industrial peace. Senior officials, including the Principal Secretary (Labour) and the Labour Commissioner of Uttar Pradesh, joined the meeting virtually. Discussions focused on protecting workers’ interests, double payment for overtime, bonus, weekly holidays and workplace safety.
The District Magistrate urged workers to remain calm and return to their workplaces peacefully. An appeal was made asking them to maintain harmony and law and order, and not to believe rumours.
Control room numbers were also shared for assistance: 120-2978231, 120-2978232, 120-2978862, 120-2978702.
The District Magistrate announced several measures to address workers’ concerns. Overtime payments will be doubled, and workers will be paid on a weekly basis. Bonus payments will be credited to bank accounts before November 30.
An anti-sexual harassment committee will be set up in all organisations, led by women. A distress committee will also be formed to handle workers’ issues. Authorities said all workers will be treated with respect. Salaries will be credited to bank accounts by the 10th of every month, and salary slips will be provided. A control room has also been established to address complaints.
What police said?
Noida Police said adequate deployment has been ensured across industrial areas under the Gautam Buddh Nagar Commissionerate. Senior police and administrative officials are present on the ground, and the situation is being closely monitored.
Officials are continuously appealing to workers to remain calm and exercise restraint. Police added that law and order is being maintained with minimal use of force as required, and advised the public not to pay attention to rumours.
Authorities said efforts are ongoing to bring the situation fully under control.
Traffic advisory
Traffic movement across Noida was badly hit on Monday as workers’ protests over salary demands caused major disruption, particularly in Sector 62 and nearby areas. Entry into Noida from the Akshardham side was blocked, affecting commuters coming from Delhi. Key roads linking Sector 62 with Sector 16 and NH-9 were shut by protesters, leading to long queues and delays. Authorities diverted traffic from Chilla Border towards Mahamaya Flyover and from Mahamaya Flyover towards DND Toll and Chilla Border. Commuters have been advised to take alternate routes to avoid congestion and ensure smoother travel during peak hours.
