In a significant development linked to the ongoing labour protests in Noida, a Samajwadi Party delegation was stopped by police at the DND flyway while attempting to meet agitating workers. The delegation, led by Leader of Opposition Mata Prasad Pandey, had arrived to express solidarity with workers and hear their grievances firsthand. However, heavy police deployment prevented them from proceeding further, and the group was subsequently taken to the police lines in Noida.
Police Action Sparks Political Confrontation
The move to halt the delegation triggered strong reactions from party members, who described the action as undemocratic and against constitutional principles. According to party leaders, preventing elected representatives from meeting workers raises serious questions about administrative transparency and the handling of dissent. The delegation protested at the spot, accusing authorities of attempting to suppress voices supporting labour rights.
Allegations Against the Government
Mata Prasad Pandey strongly criticized the state government, alleging that its policies are increasingly anti-worker, anti-farmer, and anti-youth. He stated that the current administration is functioning in an authoritarian manner, where democratic values are being undermined. According to him, workers—many of whom come from economically weaker sections and different parts of the country—are facing injustice when they raise legitimate demands.
He further claimed that instead of addressing the concerns of workers, the administration is resorting to arrests and restrictions to curb dissent. The Samajwadi Party, he said, stands firmly with the workers and will continue to support their rightful demands at every level, from the streets to legislative forums.
Demand for Immediate Action
The party demanded the immediate release of workers who were allegedly detained during the protests and called for swift implementation of their demands, including fair wages and better working conditions. Leaders emphasized that the issues raised by workers are genuine and require urgent attention rather than suppression.
The delegation also raised concerns over reports of house arrests of several party leaders in Noida. They criticized the administration for allegedly restricting political movement and warned that such actions could lead to public backlash. According to them, attempts to silence opposition voices will not succeed, and the public will respond appropriately.
Key Leaders Present in Delegation
The delegation included several prominent leaders such as Mata Prasad Pandey, Sudhir Bhati, Ashray Gupta, Shahid Manzoor, Kamal Akhtar, Atul Pradhan, Pankaj Kumar Malik, Shashank Yadav, Fakirchand Nagar, Rajkumar Bhati, Veer Singh Yadav, and Sunil Chaudhary. Other members included Vikas Yadav, Ramveer Yadav, Rohit, Surendra, Satbir Yadav, Mohit Yadav, Monu Khari, Uday Singh, Lokesh Yadav, Rohit Billu Saifi, along with a large number of party workers.
Growing Political Heat Over Labour Issue
The incident highlights the increasing political dimension of the labour unrest in Noida. What began as a workers’ movement over wages and working conditions has now evolved into a broader political issue, drawing responses from multiple parties. With tensions still visible, the situation remains sensitive, and further developments are expected as both political and administrative responses continue.
