Violent protests broke out Monday in Noida, where thousands of factory workers in the Phase 2 industrial area clashed with police, damaged vehicles, and set cars on fire.

The unrest, centered around the Hosiery Complex in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, caused major disruptions on roads connecting the area to New Delhi. Authorities deployed a significant police presence, including tear gas, to regain control.

Workers from garment and hosiery factories gathered to demand higher wages and improved labor conditions. Protesters called for a minimum monthly salary of Rs 20,000, double overtime pay, weekly days off, timely wage payments with documentation, bonuses, and stronger workplace safety protections, particularly for women.

Many workers said they currently earn between Rs 10,000 and Rs 13,000 despite working long shifts, often up to 12 hours a day, and face deductions and limited benefits.

The demonstrations began peacefully on Friday but escalated after neighboring Haryana approved a roughly 35% increase in minimum wages, fueling frustration among workers in Uttar Pradesh over stagnant pay.

Local officials had attempted to defuse tensions. District authorities met with labor and industry representatives over the weekend and announced measures including overtime reforms, mandatory weekly leave, and improved payment systems. However, protests continued and turned confrontational by Monday morning.

Police said no major injuries were reported, but confirmed damage to multiple vehicles, including law enforcement units, along with widespread vandalism. Reinforcements were deployed, and traffic diversions were put in place to manage congestion.

Yogi Adityanath warned that those responsible for violence would face strict action while urging dialogue to address worker concerns.

The incident follows similar labor unrest in other industrial regions, including Manesar in Gurugram, and reflects broader tensions over wages and working conditions in parts of India’s manufacturing sector.