Noida News: Massive protests have erupted in Noida after protests by factory workers turned violent. According to media reports, a police van and a series of other vehicles were vandalized and burnt at Phase 2 of Noida, home to many factories.
Protestors are demanding a salary hike and several other benefits. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has commented that industries must follow labour laws and workers must get their dues on time. The UP CM however directed police and other authorities to take strict action against individuals and groups who are trying to instigate workers.
Noida News-Cause Of Protests
The Haryana government recently announced a hike of 35 percent in the minimum wage for unskilled workers of the state, raising it from Rs 11,274 per month to Rs 15,220 per month. Workers in Noida are now pressing demands that the government of Uttar Pradesh hike the minimum wages as their Haryana contemporaries are getting more for the same job. Workers also raised the issues of lack of weekly offs, unsafe workplaces and the absence of grievance redressal mechanisms.
Gautam Buddha Nagar District Magistrate Medha Rupam has offered big relief for workers in Noida by saying that all companies must pay salaries by the 10th of every month. The DM added that double payments for overtime made should be made mandatory.
A joint meeting of the Gautam Buddha Nagar police, Noida authority and the administration was held in Sector 6 at the Noida Development Authority office. After the meeting, it was stated by Labor Commissioner Markandey Shahi and Principal Secretary (Labor) M.K.S. Sundaram that the state government is fully committed to safeguard the interests of both entrepreneurs and workers.
Police Reaction
Police Commissioner Lakshmi Singh remarked that all required security arrangements have been made by the police department to ensure law and order is maintained in the district.
Several helpline numbers have been issued 0120-2978231, 0120-2978232, 0120-2978862 and 0120-2978702. A control room has been established for addressing the problems of workers and maintaining industrial peace.
