50+ fake handles created in 24hrs before Noida protests: Police
What's the story
The Noida Police has identified over 50 bot handles created in the run-up to the workers' protest and used to spread rumours, officials said, according to The Indian Express. "Strict legal action will be ensured against all such handles that attempt to disrupt law and order through the dissemination of rumors and malicious propaganda," officials were quoted as saying. Noida District Magistrate Medha Roopam said an investigation has begun to probe the entire incident.
Incident
What transpired during protest
On Monday, thousands of factory workers from Noida's industrial belt rallied to demand better wages and working conditions. The demonstration escalated into violence as protesters threw stones, vandalized vehicles, and set several on fire, creating a chaotic scene. The unrest also led to massive traffic jams across the city, including routes to Delhi via DND Flyway and Chilla Border.
Wage details
New monthly wages
Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced a 21% interim minimum wage hike for workers in Gautam Buddha Nagar and Ghaziabad. According to the Noida District Magistrate's office, the new monthly wages are ₹13,690 for unskilled workers (up from ₹11,313), ₹15,059 for semi-skilled workers (up from ₹12,445), and ₹16,868 for skilled workers (up from ₹13,940). The wage hike is not applicable uniformly across Uttar Pradesh.
Misinformation
Misinformation addressed
Concurrently, misinformation about the minimum wages being set at ₹20,000 per month was also addressed by authorities. The Noida District Magistrate called the claims "fabricated and false news being circulated on several social media platforms." Chief Minister Adityanath urged citizens to rely only on official sources for accurate information regarding the wage dispute.
National context
National minimum 'floor wage'
The Uttar Pradesh wage revision is part of a larger national discussion on workers' pay. The Centre is working on a national minimum "floor wage" under the new Labour Codes. The state government is holding consultations with stakeholders to ensure balanced decisions considering economic pressures and workers' demands. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to workers' welfare, emphasizing timely wage payments, social security benefits, and safe working conditions.