Noida turns warzone: Cars torched, stones rain down as workers’ protest spirals into violence

A protest by factory workers over low wages escalated into violence in Phase 2 of Noida on Monday. The agitation, which began as a demonstration, spiralled out of control with incidents of vandalism and arson reported in the industrial area, officials said.

During the unrest, several vehicles were damaged by protesters, with at least one vehicle set on fire. Authorities confirmed that the mob resorted to destruction of property as tensions peaked during the demonstration over wage-related demands.

Incidents of stone pelting were reported during the protest, further aggravating the situation. The violence caused additional damage to property in the area, prompting authorities to step in quickly to prevent further escalation.

The protests intensified after a sharp wage increase in Haryana, where minimum wages rose significantly. In contrast, wages in Uttar Pradesh remain lower, creating a gap that has contributed to growing dissatisfaction among workers in Noida.

The administration announced that workers will receive their annual bonus before November 30 and salaries by the 10th of each month. It also mandated medical cover, workplace safety measures and dignified treatment of workers.

Officials said workers will be entitled to a compulsory weekly off, and any work on that day must be compensated at double pay. Overtime work will also be paid at twice the regular rate as part of the new safeguards.

The violence followed two consecutive days of protests by factory workers demanding higher minimum wages. The continued agitation eventually intensified, culminating in Monday’s violent outbreak in Phase 2.

A large police force was rushed to the spot to control the situation. Officials said personnel were deployed in significant numbers to disperse the crowd, contain the unrest and ensure that law and order was brought back under control.

In response to the unrest, the Noida administration announced a set of measures aimed at addressing worker concerns. These include steps related to wages, working conditions and grievance redressal mechanisms.

Authorities stated that the situation is being closely monitored following the violence. Efforts are underway to restore normalcy in the area, with officials keeping a watch to prevent any further flare-ups in the industrial belt.