Shocking details have emerged from the ongoing investigation into the recent protests by workers in Noida that witnessed several incidents of violence, arson and arrests.
According to Noida Police Commissioner
Laxmi Singh, “The violence that occurred in Noida was a mala fide, internationally organised activity. The names of Manisha Chauhan, Rupesh Rai, and Aditya Anand have surfaced in connection with inciting the violence.”
“Rupesh has been continuously travelling across the country since 2018, and Aditya since 2020; wherever any agitation takes place, they are present there. Rupesh Roy identifies himself as an auto-rickshaw driver, while Aditya is unemployed, Noida CP said.
She also confirmed that “Movement within Noida was coordinated on March 31 and April 1; subsequently, on April 9 and 10, WhatsApp groups were created by sending QR codes.” On April 10, the workers staged a protest; on the 11th, they were incited to block the roads. On April 11, when a peaceful settlement was reached, these individuals delivered inflammatory speeches, thereby inciting the workers,” she added.
The official said that it was through their instigation that the workers were mobilised to gather in front of the Motherson facility on April 13. “Rupesh was apprehended on April 11, and Manisha Chauhan was also arrested; Aditya remains absconding at large. On April 13, after the protest had been brought under control, misinformation was disseminated via two social media (X) accounts.
‘X Accounts Used To Instigate Workers Were Being Operated From Pakistan’
“During the protest, workers were observed viewing these specific posts on X. An FIR regarding this matter was registered at the Sector 20 Police Station on the very same day. The investigation has revealed that both of these X handles are being operated from Pakistan,” Noida CP added.
“VPNs were utilised by these entities, and the accounts have been operating from Pakistan for the past three months. There are certain elements intent on destabilising the industrial sectors. A database was utilised to incite the workers via social media. Thirteen cases have been registered, involving the aforementioned social media accounts,” she added.
According to police, so far 62 arrests have been made; this includes 9 individuals involved in arson, as well as members of the mob that attacked the police. The majority of those arrested are not labourers. Some individuals involved in this violence had arrived from outside the region, police said, adding that action will be initiated under the National Security Act (NSA).
