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Delhi: Violent protests by workers over low wages( low wages) in Noida have taken a serious turn, with police revealing that the unrest may have been part of a coordinated, technology-driven operation rather than a spontaneous outburst.
According to Gautam Buddha Nagar Police Commissioner Laxmi Singh, investigators have identified a pattern of organized mobilization using social media platforms, including fake accounts, WhatsApp groups, and possibly even a call center-like setup. Around 400 individuals have been arrested so far in connection with the violence.
Police say that within just a few days, multiple fake handles were created on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, which were allegedly used to incite workers and coordinate actions. Encrypted messaging through WhatsApp played a key role in rapidly mobilizing large groups.
Authorities are investigating viral audio clips and group chats that allegedly encouraged protesters to gather and confront police forces. In one such clip, participants were reportedly urged to prepare for clashes, while messages in group chats suggested bringing items like chilli powder to counter police action.
Officials noted that the use of QR codes to add participants into WhatsApp groups enabled organizers to scale participation quickly while maintaining anonymity. This, combined with coordinated messaging and newly created accounts, points to a systematic effort to instigate unrest.
Further raising concerns, police said that several masked individuals deliberately targeted CCTV cameras during the protests, attempting to destroy evidence and avoid identification. Footage recovered by authorities shows incidents of vandalism and public disorder carried out by these groups.
Investigators are now looking into possible funding sources and examining whether there are any external or cross-border links involved in orchestrating the protests. “If any such connections are found, strict action will be taken,” officials stated.
Amid the tensions, the Uttar Pradesh Government has announced a hike in minimum wages across worker categories. The revised wages, effective from April 1, will see unskilled workers in Gautam Buddha Nagar and Ghaziabad earn ₹13,690 per month, up from ₹11,313, while semi-skilled and skilled workers will now receive ₹15,059 and ₹16,868 respectively.
As investigations continue, authorities remain focused on uncovering the full extent of the alleged network behind the unrest, even as the situation on the ground gradually stabilizes.
