Noida/Greater Noida, April 13 (IANS) Tensions flared in parts of Noida on Sunday after thousands of workers staged protests across the district to press for their demands. According to Laxmi Singh, Police Commissioner of Gautam Buddh Nagar, nearly 42,000 workers gathered at around 83 locations.

While the majority of demonstrations remained peaceful, incidents of violence were reported at two locations, she said.

Laxmi Singh told the media that minimal force was used to disperse the crowd, and over 200 people were taken into custody. Authorities have also registered FIRs against certain social media accounts accused of spreading misinformation and inciting unrest.

Officials stated that the situation at 78 locations was handled through dialogue and persuasion, with workers dispersing after discussions. However, authorities alleged that some individuals from outside districts attempted to provoke violence and disrupt the peaceful protests.

“This appears to be part of a planned conspiracy,” she said, adding that those identified are being booked.

A committee formed by the Government of Uttar Pradesh visited the Greater Noida authority office to hold talks with representatives and address workers’ grievances.

The Police Commissioner further said that false information circulated through two social media handles triggered panic among workers, escalating tensions at certain sites. “These handles have been identified, and FIRs have been registered,” she said.

Appealing for calm, Singh urged workers to maintain peace and patience. She informed the media that most demands had already been discussed.

She further said that four out of five key issues were resolved through negotiations. Among the accepted demands were payment of double wages for overtime and the formation of POSH committees to address workplace harassment complaints, particularly for women workers, with support from local police where necessary, she said.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. The officials have urged all stakeholders to resolve issues through dialogue.

–IANS

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