Noida factory workers protest: Noida came to a near standstill on Monday after large-scale protests by factory workers demanding higher wages spiralled into violence, triggering arson, vandalism and massive traffic disruptions across the National Capital Region (NCR). The unrest prompted the Uttar Pradesh Government to order a detailed probe, with Labour Minister Anil Rajbhar flagging a possible “conspiracy angle,” including alleged links to handlers in Pakistan.
`
The protests, which had been building for four days, intensified sharply during peak morning hours as tens of thousands of workers gathered across industrial clusters in Noida. Authorities estimated that around 42,000 workers assembled at nearly 83 locations, overwhelming the city’s infrastructure.
Major routes including the DND Flyway, the Delhi-Noida Link Road via Chilla border, and stretches of NH-9 and NH-24 witnessed severe congestion for hours. Commuters travelling between Noida, Delhi and Gurugram were left stranded, with travel times stretching up to three times the usual duration.
Industrial zones such as Phase-2, Sector 60, Sector 62 and Sector 84 emerged as flashpoints, where incidents of stone-pelting, damage to factory premises and vehicles being set on fire were reported.
Violence Erupts, Police Use Force
As the protests escalated, clashes broke out between demonstrators and police personnel in several pockets. Security forces resorted to tear gas and limited baton charges to disperse crowds, while officials maintained that “minimum force” was used to restore order.
Police confirmed that seven FIRs have been registered and multiple individuals detained in connection with the violence. By afternoon, authorities stated that the situation was largely under control following heavy deployment of security personnel.
Labour Minister Anil Rajbhar described the unrest as a “well-planned conspiracy,” linking it to recent arrests of suspected terror operatives in parts of western Uttar Pradesh.
“The incident appears aimed at disrupting development and law and order. In recent days, arrests in Meerut and Noida have revealed links to handlers based in Pakistan. In such a situation, the possibility of a broader conspiracy cannot be ruled out,” he said, adding that agencies are investigating all angles.
Workers Cite Wage Concerns, Mismanagement
Despite the violence, protesting workers maintained that their agitation was driven by economic distress and long-standing wage concerns. They demanded a revision of monthly wages from ₹10,000–₹15,000 to ₹18,000–₹20,000, arguing that pay scales should be aligned with neighbouring states.
Several workers also accused authorities of mishandling the situation and alleged that police action escalated tensions on the ground.
Industry bodies expressed concern over the deteriorating law-and-order situation, citing attacks on factories, forced entry into industrial premises and damage to infrastructure. The developments have raised serious questions about business continuity in one of North India’s key manufacturing hubs.
Wage Hike Announced, Panel Formed
In response to the unrest, the state government announced a revision in minimum wages and constituted a high-level committee to address workers’ grievances.
Under the revised structure, unskilled workers in Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad will receive ₹13,690 per month, up from ₹11,313. Semi-skilled workers will now earn ₹15,059, while skilled workers will get ₹16,868. Revised wage structures have also been notified for other municipal and district areas.
Officials said the measures aim to restore normalcy and prevent further escalation, even as investigations into the violence continue.
