Noida Violence: UP Govt Claims External Hand, Says 45 of 66 Arrested Were Not Workers

The Uttar Pradesh government has reiterated that “external elements” played a role in the recent violence during labour protests in Noida, even as workers’ organisations rejected the allegation and demanded an impartial inquiry into the incident.

According to the state government, the unrest that erupted during wage-related protests was not a spontaneous labour agitation but part of a “well-planned conspiracy” aimed at disrupting industrial peace. Officials claimed that 45 of the 66 arrested individuals are not workers , strengthening their assertion that the movement was infiltrated by outside groups.

The protests, which began over demands for a wage hike, turned violent on Monday across industrial sectors of Noida and Greater Noida. Vehicles were torched, including police SUVs, while stone pelting and vandalism damaged public and private property, temporarily halting industrial operations.

The government said its probe has identified individuals involved in arson , incitement , and alleged planning of the violence. Officials also stated that investigations are underway into suspected coordination through social media platforms and possible links to organised networks.

However, labour unions and workers’ bodies strongly contested the government’s version, saying genuine wage grievances were being delegitimised. They warned against branding all protesters as outsiders and demanded a transparent judicial inquiry , claiming several detained individuals were genuine labourers.

Workers’ representatives also alleged excessive use of force during crowd control and insisted that peaceful protest rights must be protected. They called for stronger dialogue mechanisms between industry and labour to prevent future escalation.

The state government, meanwhile, maintained that it acted swiftly under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directions to restore order and ensure industrial stability. Officials said the situation was brought under control within hours, with normal operations resuming after wage revision announcements and coordination between employers and workers.

Reaffirming its stance, the government warned of strict action against anyone attempting to disturb law and order , while labour groups stressed that focus should remain on fair wages and constructive negotiation rather than criminalisation of protests .