In India, fresh violence erupted in Noida as labour protests over low wages escalated into clashes with police, exposing deepening unrest among industrial workers in Uttar Pradesh.  According to Kashmir Media Service, workers protesting in Sector 80 of Gautam Buddh Nagar clashed with police on Tuesday, with incidents of stone-pelting reported as the situation turned violent.

Police used force to disperse the protesters after attempts to defuse tensions over proposed wage revisions failed.  Authorities said workers were demanding a minimum monthly salary of Rs 20,000, while police and officials were trying to explain the revised wage structure. The situation deteriorated when sections of protesters resorted to violence, prompting a crackdown. 

Earlier in the day, workers from an industrial unit staged demonstrations over wage disparities, alleged irregular termination practices, and low apprenticeship pay. Protesters also demanded that official wage notifications be displayed at factory gates to ensure transparency. The unrest comes amid growing labour dissatisfaction in industrial hubs of Uttar Pradesh, where workers have repeatedly raised concerns over inflation, job insecurity, and stagnant wages.

Following the escalation of protests, the Uttar Pradesh government announced a revision in minimum wages across categories, with new rates applied retrospectively from April 1.  According to official figures, in Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad, unskilled workers will now receive Rs 13,690 per month, semi-skilled workers Rs 15,059, and skilled workers Rs 16,868. Revised wage structures have also been notified for other municipal and district categories across the state. 

The government stated that the decision was taken after consultations with employers’ associations and labour organisations, and following recommendations of a high-powered committee approved by the Chief Minister. The unrest follows large-scale demonstrations by factory workers in Noida earlier this week, where protests demanding better wages and working conditions had already turned violent in parts of the industrial belt. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)