Uttar Pradesh Increases Minimum Wages Amid Noida Protests; Police Make 300 Arrests
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Key Takeaways
New Delhi, April 14 (NationPress) Following the recent turmoil in Noida, the Uttar Pradesh Government has announced an increase in minimum wages across various worker categories, with the new rates effective retroactively from April 1. In the wake of unrest, police have made approximately 300 arrests to restore order.
Authorities reported that the situation in the industrial center has stabilized after extensive protests occurred just a day prior.
This wage adjustment significantly boosts the monthly compensation for workers across different sectors. In the Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad districts, unskilled workers will now receive Rs 13,690 per month, an increase from Rs 11,313. Wages for semi-skilled workers have risen from Rs 12,445 to Rs 15,059, while skilled workers will see their earnings rise to Rs 16,868 from Rs 13,940.
In other municipal areas, unskilled workers will earn Rs 13,006, semi-skilled workers Rs 14,306, and skilled workers Rs 16,025. For the remaining districts, the revised wages are Rs 12,356 for unskilled, Rs 13,591 for semi-skilled, and Rs 15,224 for skilled workers. Officials confirmed that the interim adjusted rates encompass both basic pay and Dearness Allowance.
This decision comes in the aftermath of widespread protests by factory workers in Noida on Monday demanding higher wages and addressing long-standing salary issues. The demonstrations escalated into violence in parts of the Phase 2 industrial zone, resulting in vandalism, stone-pelting, and road blockades.
Traffic was heavily impacted, especially on the Noida Link Road and routes leading from the Chilla Border, causing significant delays for commuters traveling between Delhi and Noida.
In an update, Joint Commissioner of Police Rajeev Narayan Mishra stated, “The situation has normalized today, and we have deployed police at all critical locations. Continuous flag marches and patrols are being conducted, with some units actively engaged in their responsibilities.
“Due to the celebration of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Jayanti, some groups have declared a holiday in certain areas. We are maintaining ongoing communication and coordination with all units and industrial associations while remaining vigilant. Yesterday, over 40,000 workers gathered at more than 800 locations to voice their concerns. Police engaged with them at over 80 locations, facilitating dialogue to resolve the issues.”
“Approximately 300 arrests have been made, and a few more individuals have been identified,” he added.
Heavy police presence continues in sensitive areas, with authorities working closely with industrial associations to avert any further disturbances.