Noida Protests: Police Commissioner Addresses Rumors and Arrests
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Noida/Greater Noida, April 13 (NationPress) Unrest emerged in several areas of Noida on Sunday as thousands of workers rallied throughout the district to voice their demands. According to Laxmi Singh, the Police Commissioner of Gautam Buddh Nagar, approximately 42,000 workers congregated at around 83 locations.
While most protests were conducted without incident, occurrences of violence transpired at two sites, she reported.
In a media briefing, Laxmi Singh stated that minimal force was required to disperse the demonstrators, resulting in the arrest of over 200 individuals. The authorities have also filed FIRs against specific social media accounts suspected of disseminating false information and fueling unrest.
Officials noted that the situation at 78 locations was managed through constructive dialogue and persuasion, with workers dispersing post-discussion. However, allegations arose that some individuals from neighboring districts attempted to incite violence and derail the peaceful protests.
“This seems to be part of a coordinated conspiracy,” she remarked, adding that those responsible are being prosecuted.
A committee established by the Government of Uttar Pradesh visited the Greater Noida authority office to engage with representatives and address the workers' concerns.
The Police Commissioner further indicated that misleading information propagated by two social media accounts incited panic among workers, aggravating tensions in specific areas. “These accounts have been identified, and FIRs have been filed,” she confirmed.
In a call for tranquility, Singh urged workers to uphold peace and patience, emphasizing that most demands have already been engaged in dialogue.
She noted that four out of five primary issues were resolved through negotiations. Among the agreed-upon issues were the provision of double wages for overtime and the establishment of POSH committees to tackle workplace harassment complaints, particularly concerning female workers, with necessary backing from local police.
Officials are maintaining close surveillance of the situation. They have encouraged all parties to resolve conflicts through dialogue.