Why Did the Employees' Protest in Noida Turn Violent? From EPF, ESI, and Salary Hikes to Gratuity... What Are Their Demands?

On Monday—the first day of the week—employees across various locations in Noida created a massive uproar, engaging in protests and acts of unrest. Frustration among the workers boiled over when their demands went unmet, causing the demonstrations to turn violent.

During the unrest, employees resorted to stone-pelting and caused damage to company property. They engaged in acts of arson, further escalating the chaos. Reports suggest that approximately 50,000 workers have taken to the streets in Noida.

Police Vehicle Set on Fire

Meanwhile, near the Hosiery Complex in Phase-2, employees set several vehicles ablaze. Some workers did not even spare the police; they overturned a police jeep, extensively vandalized it, and subsequently set it on fire.

In response to the violent protests, the Noida police administration swung into action. Observing the escalating unrest in multiple areas, police forces have been deployed across the city. Currently, police and administrative officials are attempting to reason with the protesting workers.

What Are the Workers’ Demands?

The protesting employees are demanding a guaranteed minimum wage, timely payment of full salaries, “equal pay for equal work,” double pay for overtime, regulation of working hours, an end to exploitation, access to EPF and ESI benefits, gratuity, social security coverage for unorganized and gig workers, job security, legal compensation in the event of layoffs, notice pay, a safe working environment, weekly holidays, specific provisions for female workers, and a proper mechanism for grievance redressal, among other demands.

In light of the widespread unrest occurring across various parts of Noida, police officials have taken charge of the situation. Heavy police forces have been deployed to the locations where acts of arson have taken place.