A day after violent protests shook parts of Noida and Ghaziabad, the Uttar Pradesh government announced a late-night revision of minimum wages. The decision comes amid growing pressure from workers demanding
better pay and improved working conditions.
New wage structure
Under the revised rates, monthly wages for unskilled workers in Noida and Ghaziabad have been increased from Rs 11,313 to Rs 13,690. The new rates will be effective from April 1.
The government has also raised wages for semi-skilled and skilled workers. In addition, different levels of wage increases have been introduced across other municipal corporations and districts in the state.
Protests turn violent
The announcement follows unrest in Phase 2 of Noida on Monday. Hundreds of workers had gathered to press for higher salaries.
During the protest, vehicles, including police SUVs, were set on fire. Public property was damaged and incidents of stone-pelting were reported in industrial areas. Police rushed to the scene and deployed heavy forces to control the situation. Tear gas was used to disperse the crowd.
The violence began in the afternoon, with sporadic incidents continuing until around 5 pm. Officials later said that no major incidents of arson or violence were reported after that.
Police flag role of ‘outsiders’
Police said that the protest had initially dispersed peacefully, but later took a violent turn due to the involvement of “outsiders”.
According to Gautam Buddh Nagar Police Commissioner Laxmi Singh, a group from outside the district entered border areas and tried to incite tension. Some individuals from this group have been taken into custody, while others are being identified for further action.
Seven FIRs have been registered across multiple police stations in the commissionerate. Police added that several anti-social elements have been detained following the unrest.
