A labour protest in Noida’s Phase-2 industrial area turned violent on Monday, highlighting deep-rooted discontent among workers over wages, working conditions and long-pending demands. Peaceful demonstration by employees from multiple industrial units quickly escalated into unrest, with incidents of arson, vandalism and stone-pelting reported from Phase-2 and Sector 60. At least one police vehicle and several other vehicles were set on fire, while roadside property was damaged during the chaos.

The agitation was primarily driven by demands for salary revision and better labour conditions. Workers have been voicing concerns over low wages in Uttar Pradesh, especially in comparison to neighbouring Haryana, where minimum wages were recently increased from around Rs 14,000 to Rs 19,000. In contrast, wages in Noida remain around Rs 13,000, fuelling resentment across the industrial belt.

Authorities responded with heavy police deployment across the Gautam Buddh Nagar commissionerate. Senior police and administrative officials rushed to the affected areas, and efforts are underway to restore normalcy. Officials said strict action would be taken against those involved in violence, while also emphasising dialogue with workers to resolve the situation.

The unrest also severely disrupted traffic, with major road blockades causing long delays for commuters across key routes. The impact extended to Delhi, where police were placed on high alert to prevent any spillover. Security was tightened at border points, with additional personnel, barricading and vehicle checks put in place.

The protests come despite recent assurances by the administration. A day before the violence, officials had announced measures including weekly offs, double overtime pay, bonuses and improved workplace safety. However, the scale of protests suggests that dissatisfaction persists.

Authorities are now focused on maintaining law and order while addressing worker grievances through sustained engagement.