Noida Industrial Area Tense After Violent Clash Between Workers and Police
Noida: The ongoing workers' protest in Noida demanding a wage hike turned violent on Monday. A fierce clash broke out between workers and police at the Hosiery Complex in Greater Noida's Phase 2. Protesters vandalized police vehicles and set some on fire, creating chaos in the area.
A large number of workers gathered in the morning to protest their demands. Meanwhile, some protesters became violent and began pelting stones at the police. As the situation escalated, several police vehicles were damaged and one was even overturned. Incidents of arson further escalated the situation.
To bring the situation under control, the police resorted to forceful action and fired tear gas cannons. Additional police and PAC personnel were subsequently deployed. There was also scuffle between the police and workers, and at some points, even a lathi charge was used. The administration has tightened security in the area.
The protest, which began in Gurugram and has now spread to Noida, has been ongoing for the past five days. Initially, it was a peaceful demonstration, but gradually turned violent. Thousands of employees from over 500 companies in the Phase-2 and Ecotech-3 industrial areas are said to be involved in this movement.
The protesting workers' main demand is to increase the minimum wage to ₹26,000 per month. They also demand double overtime pay, fixed working hours, weekly holidays, and timely payment of wages. Workers allege that they are made to work 10-12 hours a day, but are denied adequate wages and benefits.
Gautam Buddha Nagar District Magistrate Medha Roopam has appealed for peace. She stated that after meeting with workers and industry representatives, several directives have been issued, including ensuring timely wages and overtime payments. Additionally, a 24-hour control room has been set up to address complaints.
This movement in Noida is no longer just a wage issue, but has become a major battle for workers' rights. The challenge for the administration and companies is to find a quick solution so that the situation doesn't worsen and industrial activity can return to normal.
