Workers in Noida and Haryana take to the streets over wage disparities, delayed implementation, and lack of communication from employers
April 14, 2026: Violent protests broke out in Noida on Monday and continued into Tuesday, as industrial workers demanded higher wages and parity with neighbouring Haryana. Demonstrators set vehicles, including police SUVs, on fire, damaged public property, and clashed with authorities. The unrest was triggered by Haryana’s recent decision to increase minimum wages by 35 percent across worker categories, creating a sharp wage gap between the two regions.
Under the revised structure in Haryana, wages for unskilled workers rose significantly, with similar hikes for semi-skilled and skilled labour. However, protests also erupted within Haryana itself, particularly in Faridabad and Palwal, where around 7,500 workers took to the streets. They alleged that factory managements had failed to officially communicate or implement the new wage structure, leading to confusion and mistrust despite the announced increase.
Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government responded by announcing an interim wage hike, but protests in Noida continued. Workers claimed the revised pay still lagged behind Haryana’s rates and accused employers of not following minimum wage norms. Police have registered multiple FIRs and arrested nearly 350 individuals as authorities attempt to bring the situation under control.