Noida Unrest: Police link violence to Pakistan based social media, 62 arrested

Police have linked the recent workers’ unrest in Noida to misleading social media content allegedly operated from Pakistan , even as opposition voices argue the violence reflects deeper labour grievances .

Police Commissioner Laxmi Singh said on Thursday that a technical analysis of two X handles @Proudindiannavi and @MirIlyasINC indicated they were being run from Pakistan using VPNs . “ Investigation into the matter is ongoing ,” she said, adding that provocative posts circulated on April 13 were intended to disrupt public order .

According to police, the posts triggered fear and outrage , leading to stone-pelting, arson, and vandalism at two locations. Several people were injured, and vehicles and public property were damaged . So far, 62 individuals have been arrested , with 13 cases registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Information Technology Act, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act. Authorities also claimed that a majority of those involved were outsiders.

However, the police’s assertion of foreign involvement has drawn criticism from opposition parties and labour groups , who say the unrest was rooted in longstanding demands for wage hikes and improved working conditions. Critics caution that emphasising external interference risks diverting attention from systemic labour issues and could politicise the situation.

The developments have sparked a political debate , with some leaders backing strict action against misinformation networks , while others question the timing and narrative of the police findings.

Officials said the situation in Gautam Buddh Nagar , including Noida and Greater Noida, has stabilised , with industries functioning normally. In response, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced a minimum wage hike and plans to set up a wage board , aiming to address worker concerns and prevent further unrest.