According to officials, thousands of workers from multiple industrial units gathered in industrial areas such as Phase 2 and Sector 60 to press for salary revisions and better wages. The agitation later spread to other areas, including Sector 62 and Sector 84, with reports of protests at a Motherson company unit as well.
Protest turns violent
The demonstration turned tense after police resorted to lathi charge and used tear gas to control crowds. In the ensuing chaos, incidents of stone pelting, vehicle torching, and property vandalism were reported from Phase 2 and Sector 60, police said.
Workers claimed that their salaries have not kept pace with rising living costs. One woman worker said, “We should be earning ₹20,000 for 8 hours of work. Instead, some companies give an increment of ₹280 or ₹300. Meanwhile, our house rent increases by ₹500.” Another worker said she works 12 hours a day for around ₹13,000 per month.
Traffic disruption across Noida–Delhi routes
The protests caused severe traffic congestion across major routes connecting Noida and Delhi during peak morning hours. Long queues of vehicles stretched for several kilometres at the Delhi-Noida border, leaving thousands of commuters stranded.
Traffic movement on the Noida Link Road from the Chilla Border was also heavily affected after protesters blocked National Highway 9. The Delhi Traffic Police issued an advisory warning of major disruptions, though the Chilla Border was later reopened for vehicular movement.
Police response and investigation
The Gautam Buddh Nagar Police deployed heavy security across industrial zones, with senior officers monitoring the situation on the ground. Authorities said the situation was brought under control using minimum force.
Police also stated that only one location witnessed violence, while demonstrations at other sites remained largely peaceful. Officials added that no firing occurred during the incident and urged the public not to spread misinformation.
In addition, Uttar Pradesh Police confirmed that FIRs are being registered against two social media handles for allegedly spreading rumours and inciting unrest related to the protest.
Authorities further claimed that elements from outside the state may have instigated parts of the agitation, though investigations are ongoing.
