Violence broke out during workers’ protests in Noida, leading to large-scale arrests and an ongoing investigation into a possible larger conspiracy. Uttar Pradesh Labour Minister Anil Rajbhar on Monday described the unrest as a “well-planned conspiracy” and said authorities are also examining a possible Pakistan link in the case. His remarks come amid recent terror-related arrests in the region, which have raised concerns about coordinated attempts to disturb law and order.

The protests began as a demonstration by factory workers demanding a wage hike, but soon escalated into violence across several parts of Noida. Areas such as Phase-2, Sector 60, Sector 62, and Sector 84 witnessed arson, vandalism, and stone-pelting. Vehicles were set on fire, property was damaged, and traffic movement was severely affected. Police quickly reached the affected locations and deployed a heavy force. Tear gas was also used to disperse the crowds and bring the situation under control.

So far, around 350 people have been arrested in connection with the violence. More than 100 others have been detained for questioning. Authorities are examining CCTV footage from factories and surrounding areas to identify those involved. Seven cases have been registered across different police stations under the Gautam Buddh Nagar Commissionerate. Officials have stated that several “anti-social elements” have been taken into custody as part of the investigation.

Speaking on the matter, Labour Minister Anil Rajbhar said, "The incident appears to have been carried out with the intention of disrupting the development and law and order of the state. In recent days, four suspected terrorists have been arrested from Meerut and Noida, whose links were connected to handlers based in Pakistan. In such a situation, the possibility of a conspiracy to create instability in the state gains strength. Agencies are seriously investigating the entire matter," Rajbhar said in a statement Monday night.

He also suggested that the unrest might have been aimed at disrupting Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s programme in Muzaffarnagar held earlier the same day. According to him, “anti-national forces” could be trying to create instability in the state. The minister urged workers to remain calm and avoid falling prey to misinformation or provocation.

Rajbhar appealed to the workers, saying, "They should not fall prey to any misleading information or provocation and must maintain peace. Chaos and aggressive protests are not a solution to any problem. The government is ready to listen to every concern of the workers." He further emphasised the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue and resolve issues through peaceful means.

On the chief minister’s directions, senior officials have been sent to Noida to directly interact with the workers and address their concerns. Administrative and police teams remain deployed on the ground, closely monitoring the situation. The minister reiterated that the government is committed to workers’ welfare and is following the principle of “Shramev Jayate” in its approach.

Authorities confirmed that the situation is now under control, with a strong presence of police and paramilitary forces in sensitive areas. Efforts are ongoing to restore normalcy in the affected regions. Officials have also appealed to the public to avoid spreading rumours and to cooperate with law enforcement agencies.

The unrest, which entered its fourth consecutive day on April 13, was largely triggered by economic concerns. Workers had gathered in large numbers, estimated between 40,000 and 45,000, across more than 80 locations in the district. Their main demand was a wage hike, influenced by a recent increase in wages in neighbouring Haryana. They also sought relief from rising inflation.

According to police officials, the situation worsened in certain areas, especially in Sector-63 and near the Motherson company premises. While many workers initially dispersed peacefully, a separate group allegedly entered from outside the district and attempted to incite violence. Gautam Buddh Nagar Police Commissioner Laxmi Singh said, "After the labourers dispersed peacefully, a group from outside the district arrived in the areas bordering neighbouring districts. They moved around attempting to incite tension and provoke violence. We have taken some members of this group into custody, and we are identifying the remaining individuals to initiate appropriate action against them."

Police also stated that four out of five demands raised by the workers have already been accepted. A high-level committee has been formed to look into the remaining issue. One round of discussions has already taken place, and further meetings are expected to resolve the matter.

Officials have stressed that dialogue remains the preferred solution. They continue to engage with worker representatives while maintaining strict vigilance to prevent any further escalation. Authorities have assured that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure peace and stability in the region.