Noida: While it has not been established whether terrorists, with links to Pakistan, conspired to organise Monday’s protests by workers in Noida, as claimed by Uttar Pradesh labour minister Anil Rajbhar, over 350 people have been arrested for arson and vandalism.
Laxmi Singh, commissioner of police, Gautam Buddh Nagar, said on Tuesday that seven FIRs have been registered in this connection and efforts are being made to trace the origins of WhatsApp messages that apparently invited the protesters.
“Route marches have been conducted continuously since 5 am. This morning, workers gathered at three locations; following immediate dialogue, they were peacefully dispersed within just 15 minutes,” Singh said.
She said that several WhatsApp groups were created over the past two days. These groups used QR codes to add workers, indicating the possible role of an organised network.
“Over the past two days, several WhatsApp groups have been created, through whi
ch workers are being added by scanning QR codes. This indicates that an organised and well-orchestrated syndicate is active behind these activities,” she said.
Individuals involved in instigating unrest have been identified and arrested, and further action is underway, she added, as reported by The Hindu.
“Certain elements within the crowd involved in such acts have been identified and arrested; further arrests will be ensured in due course. Their funding sources will also be investigated; should it be discovered that they received financial assistance from outside the state or the country, appropriate action will be initiated in that regard as well,” she said.
“Further arrests are expected in the coming days,” Singh said.
The commissioner also said a committee constituted by the state government has been holding discussions with stakeholders, in an effort to resolve the situation.
“The High-Powered Committee, which has been present here since yesterday, held extensive and marathon-style meetings with all stakeholders and has formulated certain recommendations,” she said.
Singh said the government is sensitive to workers’ concerns and is committed to addressing their issues.
“The Government of Uttar Pradesh understands the workers’ grievances, empathises with their situation, and remains committed to resolving all their issues,” she said.