Argus News - 350 Arrested, Over 100 Detained As Police Investigate 'Anti-National' Motive Behind Noida Unrest

Noida, Apr 14: The Uttar Pradesh government termed the recent violence during workers’ protests in Noida as a “well-planned conspiracy,” with Labour Minister Anil Rajbhar stating that a possible Pakistan link is also under investigation. Around 350 people have been arrested so far, while over 100 others have been detained for questioning.

According to the minister, preliminary findings suggest the unrest may have been aimed at creating instability in the state. He pointed out that four suspected terrorists were recently arrested from Noida and Meerut, allegedly linked to handlers based in Pakistan, strengthening the suspicion of a larger conspiracy.

“The incident appears to have been carried out with the intention of disrupting development and law and order. Agencies are seriously investigating the entire matter,” Rajbhar said.

Violence During Wage Protest
The unrest erupted during protests by factory workers demanding a wage hike, which escalated into violence across multiple areas, including Phase-2, Sector 60, Sector 62 and Sector 84.

Incidents of arson, vandalism and stone-pelting were reported, with vehicles set on fire and property damaged. Major routes witnessed severe traffic disruptions before police intervened using tear gas and heavy deployment to restore order.

Mass Gatherings and Escalation
Police said around 40,000 to 45,000 workers gathered at over 80 locations across the commissionerate, leading to widespread law-and-order challenges. The situation worsened in areas like Sector-63 and near the Motherson company premises, where some elements turned violent.

Laxmi Singh said that after initial peaceful dispersal, groups from outside the district allegedly entered border areas and attempted to incite further unrest. “We have taken some members into custody and are identifying others,” she said.

350 Arrested, Multiple Cases Registered
Police have registered seven cases across different police stations in the Gautam Buddh Nagar Commissionerate. CCTV footage from factories and surrounding areas is being scanned to identify those involved.

Authorities confirmed that several “anti-social elements” have been detained as part of the crackdown following the violence.

CM Programme, Wider Motive Suspected
The minister also suggested that the unrest may have been timed to disrupt a programme of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Muzaffarnagar, alleging attempts by “anti-national forces” to destabilise the state.

Government Appeals for Calm
Rajbhar urged workers not to fall prey to rumours or provocation, stressing that dialogue remains the preferred solution. “Anarchy and violent protests are not the answer. The government is ready to listen to every concern,” he said.

Police said the situation is now under control, with heavy deployment of forces in affected areas. A high-level committee has been formed to address workers’ demands, of which four out of five have already been accepted.

The unrest, which entered its fourth day on April 13, was largely triggered by demands for wage parity following a recent hike in neighbouring Haryana, amid rising inflation concerns.