Workers protest resumes in Noida Sector 63; heavy police presence deployed

Noida — Protests by industrial workers flared up again on Wednesday in Sector 63, Block A of Noida, prompting authorities to deploy a heavy police force to maintain law and order.

A group of workers gathered at the site during the day but was later dispersed by police personnel stationed in the area. The demonstrations, primarily driven by demands for wage hikes, have been ongoing for the past few days.

Situation remains tense

Security had already been tightened across key locations on Tuesday, with the administration on high alert to prevent further unrest. As part of restoration efforts, authorities are clearing debris left behind from earlier protests, including stones, burnt tyres, and other materials scattered across roads.

Industrial units in the area are also stepping up preventive measures. Barbed wire fencing is being installed along factory perimeters, gates are being reinforced, and hoardings have been placed at entrances informing workers about revised minimum wage entitlements.

Background of the protests

The agitation began earlier this week, when workers across industrial zones in Noida staged demonstrations over low wages and pending salary revisions. The situation escalated in parts of the Phase 2 industrial area, where incidents of vandalism, stone-pelting, and road blockades were reported.

Traffic movement was severely affected, especially along the Noida Link Road and routes connecting via the Chilla border, causing long delays for commuters travelling between Delhi and Noida.

Government response

In response, the Uttar Pradesh Government announced a revision in minimum wages across worker categories, aiming to address concerns and restore normalcy.

• Unskilled workers: Increased to Rs 13,690 (from Rs 11,313)
• Semi-skilled workers: Increased to Rs 15,059 (from Rs 12,445)
• Skilled workers: Increased to Rs 16,868 (from Rs 13,940)

Revised wages have also been announced for other municipal and district areas with similar upward adjustments.

Officials confirmed that these interim wages include both basic pay and Dearness Allowance. Meanwhile, police action continues, with around 300 individuals reportedly arrested so far to control the situation.

Authorities remain focused on balancing enforcement with negotiation, as efforts continue to bring the unrest under control.

With inputs from IANS