A large protest by factory workers in Noida turned violent, with protesters vandalizing vehicles and throwing stones while police tried to control the situation. The protest took place in Phase 2 of Noida, an area home to several factories. Workers are demanding a salary increase and better benefits. As the situation escalated, police reinforcements were called in to prevent further unrest, and the protests caused heavy traffic congestion on key roads in Noida on Monday morning.

The workers’ protests started after the Haryana government announced a 35% wage increase for unskilled workers, raising their monthly salary from Rs 11,274 to Rs 15,220. Workers in Noida are now demanding a similar increase, as they believe their counterparts in Haryana are paid more for the same work. They are also raising concerns about unsafe working conditions, lack of weekly offs, and the absence of grievance redressal systems.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said that workers must receive fair wages and that industries should follow labor laws. However, he also directed authorities to take strict action against those trying to incite violence during the protests. The Chief Minister emphasized that every worker should have a safe working environment and basic facilities. He urged local authorities and industrial units to address the workers’ concerns and called for increased security in industrial areas. He also warned of a potential conspiracy to revive Naxalism and urged people to remain cautious.