NOIDA: A protest by factory workers over low wages escalated into violence in Phase 2 of Noida on Monday. Originally initiated as a demonstration seeking better pay, the agitation spiraled out of control with reports of vandalism and arson emerging from the industrial area, according to officials.

The unrest began when demonstrators began to express dissatisfaction over wage disparities, especially in light of a recent wage hike in neighboring Haryana. Reports indicated that several vehicles were damaged, with at least one set ablaze as tensions peaked during the confrontation over wage-related demands. Eyewitness accounts noted incidents of stone pelting, which further exacerbated the volatile situation, leading to significant property damage.

In an attempt to quell the unrest, authorities were quick to intervene, deploying a large police force to disperse the crowd and restore law and order. This incident marks the third consecutive day of protests, indicating growing discontent among workers in Noida who are pushing back against stagnant wages.

Contextually, the wage increase in Haryana brought the disparity in minimum wages into sharp focus, with many workers in Uttar Pradesh feeling marginalized as their earnings remain comparatively low. In a bid to address these concerns, the Noida administration announced that workers would receive their annual bonus before November 30, alongside assurances that salaries would be timely, with new workplace safety measures implemented.

In addition to these measures, the administration confirmed that workers would be entitled to a mandatory weekly off, with double pay for any work performed on that day, and overtime would also be compensated at twice the base rate. As officials monitor the situation closely to prevent further violence, their focus remains sharply on restoring calm in the industrial belt while addressing underlying grievances.