- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Mon, 13 Apr 2026 10:22 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Workers' agitations and violent protests in UP, including Noida, demanding wage increases and several social security issues, have even alerted the central government. The problem began in Haryana, where a labour dispute started and eventually reached the city of Noida, with reports of sporadic labour protests occurring before reaching Rajasthan.
Delhi, which has the highest minimum wage in India, has not seen any labour protest yet, but is being monitored by officials; coordination meetings may take place between central government officials and/or BJP-led states if needed to prevent an outburst of violence from occurring.UP CM Yogi Adityanath urged workers to stay vigilant against people trying to provoke unrest and also reminded them of how the “double-engine” government provided support through the Covid-19 pandemic. His comments follow unrest among factory workers in Noida demanding higher wages, and the recent unrest among workers protesting wage increases.
CM Yogi spoke about how, during the pandemic, the government provided transportation and isolated facilities for workers. He expressed that, while there were many risks, they were there to help workers.
"I appeal to all the personnel employed in industrial units, as well as to the workers working with them, to recall how this 'double-engine' government stood by your side, something which you witnessed firsthand during the COVID-19 period," PTI quoted the CM.
What Happened in Haryana?
The initial unrest from workers demanding a higher minimum wage began to gain momentum when the state of Haryana increased the minimum wage for workers in Government employment; this decision was made after a worker's strike occurred in Manesar.
This was intended to address workers' demands, but experts believe that decisions should be made based upon input from all parties/entities in order to prevent creating additional problems for private employers, particularly with the worldwide economic instabilities caused by current geopolitical environment issues. In addition, considering other regions that may also be affected by such actions, such as in this case, there has also been unrest in multiple states.
As per the reports, the Haryana government did not consult with labour unions, the central labour ministry, or fellow neighbouring states before raising the minimum wage.
Demands Of Workers
According to the Noida Entrepreneurs Association, several employees of Madrasan, Laxmi Remote in Phase 2, and Sahu Export, located in Phase 3, participated in the protest.
The protesting workers have reportedly raised demands for:
- A minimum wage guarantee
- Timely payment of full wages
- Equal pay for equal work
- Double payment for overtime
- Regulation of working hours
- Prevention of exploitation, EPF and ESI, gratuity
- Social Security for gig and unorganised workers
- Employment security
- Legal compensation in the event of layoffs
- Notice pay
- Safe workplace
- Weekly leave
- Provisions for women workers
- A grievance redressal system
What did the Union Labour Ministry say?
According to a central labour ministry official, Uttar Pradesh can handle this matter on its own. However, if needed, discussions will be held with other states, and assistance will be provided.