Protests by industrial workers over wage demands intensified across Noida on Monday, with unrest spreading across key industrial sectors and raising concerns among both employees and industry bodies.
The demonstrations, which began over demands for higher wages, escalated into tensions affecting daily operations and workplace safety, as per HT.
Industry associations flagged a deteriorating law-and-order situation, alleging incidents of vandalism, forced entry into factory premises, and threats to workers and management. In a letter to the district administration, the Handloom Handicraft Exporters Welfare Association said several industrial units in sectors 63, Phase 1, and Phase 2 were targeted during the unrest.
As per HT, factory gates were broken, glass panes shattered and vehicles belonging to members were damaged or set on fire. It also claimed that attackers forcibly entered premises, and in some cases, timely police intervention was lacking despite prior alerts.
A factory owner in Sector 63 recounted how a group of protesters broke open the gate of his unit and entered the premises, leading to a confrontation in which he sustained minor injuries. He said stones were thrown during the incident, highlighting the intensity of the clashes.
Dushyant Rustagi, who owns a factory in Sector 63, reported that a group of demonstrators gained access to the factory grounds by persistently pushing against the entrance gate.“I was monitoring the CCTV when a group gathered outside and broke open the gate. They entered the premises, and I rushed downstairs to intervene. While trying to push them out towards the gate, I was attacked and sustained minor injuries. Stones were also thrown during the incident,” quoted by HT.
As per reports, industry representatives have demanded immediate deployment of additional police forces, permanent security pickets, and strict action against those involved in violence. They have also sought compensation for affected industrial units and enhanced protection for workers and factory owners.
The escalating protests come amid broader labour unrest in Noida, driven by demands for wage hikes and better working conditions. Authorities have increased police deployment in sensitive areas as efforts continue to restore order and address workers’ concerns.
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