Why did workers hit the streets, others joined them? Wages big trigger, but not only one
Indian Express·2h ago·Anger
What Happened
Workers across Indian industrial hubs, particularly in North India, have launched protests demanding higher wages. Rising cooking gas prices made essential goods unaffordable on current salaries. A shipping crisis in West Asia and WhatsApp rumors about wage hikes under new Labour Codes triggered broader discontent. Haryana and UP governments announced wage increases after protests in Manesar and Noida. The informal sector saw only 3.9% wage growth in 2025 against 13% in 2023-24, while inflation pressures increased.
Key Entities
Indian workersNoidaManesarHaryanaUP governmentLabour CodesAll India Trade Union CongressAmarjeet KaurMSMEsminimum wages