Violent protests in Noida escalate as workers clash with police, UP govt approves interim wage increase

Factory workers in Noida clashed with police and reportedly threw stones during continuing unrest over wage demands, even as the Uttar Pradesh government announced an interim wage hike of up to 21 per cent across worker categories. The escalation comes a day after large-scale protests disrupted multiple industrial and adjoining areas in Gautam Buddh Nagar district.

According to officials, workers gathered in large numbers at multiple locations in Noida, including Phase 2 and Sector 63, to protest wage-related issues. The demonstrations turned violent in some areas, leading to traffic disruption, damage to public property, and heightened security deployment. On the second day of unrest, sections of workers were seen engaging in stone pelting at police personnel deployed to control the situation.

In response to the agitation, the state government approved an interim revision of minimum wages for unskilled, semi-skilled and skilled workers across Uttar Pradesh. The revised structure provides the highest increase of up to 21 per cent in Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad, with adjusted rates also applicable in municipal and other districts. The government said the decision was taken to balance worker welfare with industrial stability.

Under the revised structure, unskilled workers in Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad will now receive Rs 13,690 per month, semi-skilled workers Rs 15,059, and skilled workers up to Rs 16,868. Similar revisions have been notified for municipal and non-municipal districts with lower percentage increases. Authorities clarified that the revised wages are effective retrospectively from April 1.

Officials stated that the decision follows consultations with labour organisations and industry representatives after unrest broke out in the region. Police have registered multiple FIRs and detained several individuals linked to violence, while security has been tightened across sensitive industrial zones. The administration has also warned against misinformation and indicated strict action against those attempting to disrupt public order.