Protests by industrial workers in Noida intensified on Monday, with tensions spilling onto the streets and turning violent in some areas. The agitation, centred on wage demands, has been directly linked to a recent minimum wage revision in neighbouring Haryana.
Clashes were reported in Phase-2 and sectors 60 and 62, where protesters hurled stones and set vehicles on fire. The situation escalated further after a female worker was allegedly injured during police action.
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What Haryana's wage hike changed
The trigger for the protests lies in a recent decision by the Haryana government, led by Nayab Singh Saini, to increase minimum wages by 35 per cent across worker categories, Hindustan Times reported.
Under the revised structure:
Minimum wage for unskilled workers rose from Rs 11,274 to Rs 15,220 per month
Semi-skilled workers saw wages increase from Rs 12,430.18 to Rs 16,780.74
Skilled and highly skilled workers also received a 35 per cent hike
This sharp increase has drawn attention among workers in Noida, who say they are earning less despite doing similar work.
Why Noida workers are protesting
Workers have been protesting for several days, demanding a wage revision in line with Haryana's updated rates. Many argue that the disparity has become difficult to justify, especially given the proximity of the two regions.
Some workers have also alleged that employers are not following minimum wage norms set by the Central government, further fuelling discontent.
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Security tightened as protests turn violent
With the protests escalating, Delhi Police has been placed on high alert to prevent the unrest from spreading into the national capital.
Authorities have deployed personnel at key entry points connecting Noida and Delhi, with intensified checks and barricading in place.
"Delhi Police is fully alert and vigilant. Adequate force has been deployed at all strategic locations. No one will be allowed to breach law and order," a senior officer was quoted as saying by HT.
Officials say the situation is being closely monitored as efforts continue to maintain order and prevent further escalation.
