Noida Police Arrest 396 Individuals Following Violent Labor Protests
Police in Noida announced on Tuesday that they have arrested a total of 396 people in connection with the violent labor protests that erupted on Monday. The unrest saw mobs vandalizing property and setting cars on fire across the industrial city. Among those detained, four are women, highlighting the broad scope of the police crackdown.
Multiple FIRs Filed Under BNS Sections
Authorities have registered seven First Information Reports (FIRs) at various police stations, invoking sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The charges include rioting, voluntarily causing hurt, assault or use of criminal force otherwise than on grave provocation, common intention, and wrongful restraint. These legal actions underscore the severity of the incidents and the police's intent to pursue strict legal recourse.
Social Media Misinformation and Instigation Identified
Noida Police Commissioner Laxmi Singh revealed that investigators have identified approximately 50 social media handles involved in spreading misinformation and instigating workers during the protests. "There were attempts to incite arson and violence, especially when police personnel were present at the scene," Singh stated, emphasizing the role of digital platforms in exacerbating the turmoil.
Heavy Police Deployment and Strategic Measures
In response to Monday's chaos, a comprehensive security strategy was implemented to prevent any recurrence. Additional police personnel from 12 districts, including Ghaziabad and Agra, were mobilized to bolster presence in Noida. To enhance ground supervision, two inspector-rank officers along with a circle officer were assigned to each affected area, while protest sites were secured with barricades.
Drones were deployed for aerial surveillance, providing real-time monitoring of the situation. Officials also maintained communication with labor unions and industrial worker representatives to de-escalate tensions and avert further violent outbreaks.
Isolated Incidents and Investigation Details
On Tuesday, isolated protest incidents were reported at a few locations, such as outside Cleo County in Sector 121 where a police van was vandalized, and in Sector 80 where a group allegedly threw stones at police. However, industrial areas largely remained deserted due to heavy police presence and the holiday for Ambedkar Jayanti, which led to closures at several units.
Sources indicated that the mobilization of workers on Monday was orchestrated through WhatsApp groups, some boasting over 700 members. Police have uncovered audio clips and chat logs suggesting attempts to incite protesters, including references to using chilli powder. Additionally, authorities are investigating a potential conspiracy involving the use of petrol bombs during the violence.
The ongoing probe aims to dismantle networks responsible for the unrest and ensure long-term stability in the region.
