NSA – Noida Labour Protest Case Triggers Fresh Action Against Two Accused
NSA – Authorities in Noida have intensified legal proceedings against two individuals accused of playing a key role in the violent labour demonstrations that disrupted public life in the city earlier this year.
The Gautam Buddha Nagar Police Commissionerate has invoked the National Security Act (NSA) against Satyam Verma and Akriti over their alleged involvement in the labour protests that escalated into clashes, vandalism and incidents of arson in Noida. Officials stated that the action was taken after reviewing evidence linked to activities that allegedly disturbed public order during the demonstrations.
Police Cite Serious Threat to Public Order
According to the Commissionerate’s Media Cell, investigators believe both accused were actively involved in instigating unrest during the protests organised by labour groups in the region. Multiple criminal cases had already been registered at various police stations following the violence.
Police authorities claimed the demonstrations went beyond peaceful protest and led to widespread disruption, including damage to public and private property. The NSA action, officials said, was initiated considering the gravity of the situation and the alleged attempts to create disorder in the area.
Financial Transactions Under Investigation
During the investigation, police reportedly discovered financial transactions linked to Satyam Verma that are now under detailed examination. Authorities alleged that more than Rs 1 crore was deposited into Verma’s personal bank account from several foreign countries in currencies including dollars, pounds and euros.
Investigators further stated that the money was later transferred to multiple personal accounts connected to the accused. Officials said agencies are currently analysing these transactions to determine the source and purpose of the funds.
Police also revealed that Verma is allegedly associated with several organisations that are now being examined as part of the broader investigation. Authorities have not yet disclosed additional details regarding these organisations, but officials confirmed that scrutiny of financial records and related activities is ongoing.
Earlier Arrests Linked to April Violence
The latest action follows arrests made earlier by Uttar Pradesh Police in connection with the same case. On April 20, police arrested Himanshu Thakur and Satyam Verma for their alleged roles in the workers’ agitation that turned violent in Noida.
A criminal case related to the unrest had been registered at the Phase 2 police station. According to investigators, both accused were associated with the workers’ union known as ‘Mazdoor Bigul Dasta’.
Police officials alleged that Himanshu Thakur was present in Noida during the protests and remained in contact with Aditya Anand, whom investigators identified as a central figure behind the unrest.
Wage Protest Escalated Into Violence
The protests began on April 13 over demands related to minimum wages for workers employed in industrial areas of Noida and nearby regions. What initially started as a labour demonstration later escalated into violent confrontations between protesters and police personnel.
Authorities reported incidents of stone-pelting, vandalism and vehicles being set on fire during the clashes. Following the violence, law enforcement agencies launched a major crackdown across the area.
More than 350 individuals were detained during the operation, while over 200 people were formally arrested in connection with the disturbances, according to official figures released by police.
Uttar Pradesh Government Approved Wage Increase
In the aftermath of the protests, the Uttar Pradesh government announced a revision in minimum wages for workers in Noida and Ghaziabad. The state approved a 21 per cent increase in wages, effective from April 1, 2026.
Under the revised structure, monthly wages for unskilled workers were raised to Rs 13,690. Skilled workers are now entitled to receive Rs 16,868 per month under the updated wage policy.
Officials stated that the revision was aimed at addressing worker concerns and ensuring better financial support for labourers employed in industrial sectors across the region.