Noida workers’ protest turns violent: Stones pelted, vehicles damaged over wage hike demand

The agitation was launched by workers from the Hosiery Complex in the industrial hub.

The unrest comes a day after District Magistrate Medha Roopam held a meeting with the state’s Principal Secretary (Labour) and Labour Commissioner to discuss worker welfare issues.

What happened?

The protest escalated into violence with incidents of stone-pelting and vandalism of vehicles and property.

A heavy police deployment was made in the area to bring the situation under control, and tear gas shells were used to disperse the crowd.

What are the demands?

The protesting workers are demanding a salary hike along with bonus payments, timely wages, overtime compensation, and weekly offs.

They have also sought the formation of a sexual harassment committee, a grievance redressal cell, and the issuance of salary slips.

‘Govt promised ₹20,000 hike’

One of the protesters claimed the government had promised a salary hike of ₹20,000.

A woman protester told Press Trust of India, “The government had promised to increase our salary by ₹20,000. Why isn’t the government increasing it? Why are the policemen beating girls with sticks? What is the need for a lathi charge?”