Noida workers' protest: Two ‘Mazdoor Bigul Dasta’ leaders arrested by UP Police

Noida: Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday announced the arrest of two individuals allegedly responsible for inciting a labour demonstration that descended into widespread violence in Noida last week.

The suspects, identified by authorities as Himanshu Thakur and Satyam Verma, are accused of orchestrating violent incidents and provocative activities during the protest. Both men are reportedly active members of the "Mazdoor Bigul Dasta," a prominent labour union.

According to investigators, Thakur was present in Noida during the unrest and maintained continuous communication with Aditya Anand, whom police have named as the mastermind behind the disruptions. A formal case has been registered at the Phase 2 police station as the investigation continues.

Allegations of Orchestrated Unrest

The arrests follow a disclosure by high-ranking Uttar Pradesh Police officials that the April 13 violence was not a spontaneous outburst but rather a "meticulously orchestrated conspiracy."

The unrest originally stemmed from workers' demands for higher minimum wages. However, the situation escalated into chaos last Monday as an altercation with law enforcement led to stone-pelting and the torching of vehicles.

Police sources indicate that more than 350 suspects have been detained to date. Over 200 individuals are currently under formal arrest, including several accused of executing arson in a "methodical and pre-planned manner."

Wage Breakthrough and Policy Shifts

In the wake of the protests, the state government has approved a 21% increase in minimum wages for industrial workers in Noida and Ghaziabad, retroactive to April 1, 2026.

The pay raise was facilitated by a high-powered committee established by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Under the new interim framework:

• Unskilled workers will see their monthly earnings rise from 11,313 rupees to 13,690 rupees.
• Skilled workers will receive an increased monthly wage of 16,868 rupees.

The committee, comprised of five labour representatives and three industry members, remains tasked with developing a permanent wage revision structure to ensure long-term industrial stability in the region.

With inputs from ANi