Congress condemns UP govt’s handling of Noida workers unrest

Lucknow: UP Congress launched a sharp attack on state govt over the reported unrest at a factory in Noida on Monday.Alleging that workers protesting over wages were subjected to police action, state president Ajay Rai said, “The incident is a reflection of ‘anti-worker and anti-youth policies’ of UP govt. At Motherson Industries, the labourers were agitating for the past three days over wage-related issues. Instead of justice, they were met with lathicharge and tear gas. Inflation cannot be addressed through advertisements, and tear gas shells cannot answer empty stomachs.” Claiming that the workers’ salaries saw only marginal increases of Rs 250-300 despite years of service, he said, “The raise was inadequate and naturally the labourers’ demand for fair wages, timely increments, better working conditions and improved safety standards stands justified.”Rai alleged that govt was ignoring the concerns of workers while favouring industrial interests. He held the state administration responsible for the escalation of tensions and called for immediate intervention to address the grievances of labourers.The party demanded acceptance of workers’ “legitimate demands”, free medical treatment for those injured during the protest, and action against officials and company management found responsible. It also called for fixing a minimum monthly wage of Rs 25,000 for workers across the state.Reiterating support for the protesting labourers, Rai said the Congress would stand firmly with workers in their struggle and urged govt to engage in dialogue to resolve the issue.Reiterating support for the protesting labourers, Rai said the Congress would stand firmly with workers in their struggle and urged govt to engage in dialogue to resolve the issue.