Guwahati: A protest by industrial workers in Phase 2 of Noida’s Gautam Buddha Nagar district turned violent on Monday, as demonstrations over salary hike demands escalated into clashes with authorities and widespread vandalism.
The agitation, which had been ongoing in the form of a sit-in for the past three days, intensified when thousands of workers gathered across multiple industrial sectors and took to the streets.
The situation turned particularly volatile in Sector 1, Block 84, where protesters allegedly set vehicles on fire. At least two vehicles were completely gutted in the incident, according to initial reports.
Eyewitness accounts and preliminary information suggest that stone-pelting also took place during the unrest, causing damage to several vehicles and company properties. Separate incidents of disruption were reported from Sector 62, where large crowds of workers led to significant traffic congestion and affected normal movement in the area.
To bring the situation under control, police forces were deployed in strength across affected locations. Authorities are working to prevent further damage and restore order.
The unrest unfolded despite recent assurances from the district administration. On Sunday, officials from the administration, police, and industrial departments had held meetings with company representatives and workers, promising action on key demands.
District Magistrate Medha Roopam had said that several directives were already being implemented following discussions with industrial units. These include mandatory overtime payment at double wages, weekly offs for workers, and double compensation if employees work on designated rest days.
The administration has also mandated timely salary payments by the 10th of every month, compulsory wage slips, and strict action against unauthorized deductions. Bonus payments, she added, must be credited directly to workers’ bank accounts within the stipulated period.
In addition, a control room has been set up to address grievances, while industrial units across Gautam Buddha Nagar have been instructed to strictly comply with revised labour guidelines.
Authorities have appealed for calm, urging workers to avoid rumours and cooperate with law enforcement to maintain peace in the region.