LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed district and police administrations to on high alert around May 1, Labour Day, warning them about the possibility of worker unrest in the State.
The directive comes close on the heels of a massive protest by industrial workers in Noida.
Presiding over a review meeting convened through video conferencing, CM Yogi instructed senior police officials, district magistrates and divisional commissioners to act tough on any attempts to cause industrial unrest under any circumstances.
He discussed at length the recent incidents of violence in Noida and Greater Noida of Gautam Buddha Nagar district where “suspicious elements” were blamed for triggering the unrest.
Notably, after the arrest of over 350 persons and registration of multiple FIRs against social media handles for inciting the violence during protests, over 250 people are being grilled by the investigating agencies.
The CM asked the officials to spruce up the intelligence network in order to avert any unrest in future while keeping a close vigil on large gatherings in and around industrial areas in their respective districts and jurisdictions. Officials were also instructed to monitor social media posts and take immediate preventive action to stop circulation of provocative, objectionable and aggressive messages.
The officials were asked to be alert, especially from April 30 until May 1, the Labour Day.
The Chief Minister called for increased vigilance, saying there were reports from some districts about attempts to incite caste conflicts.
Reviewing the availability of petroleum products in the market, Adityanath directed the officials that the general public be informed in this regard from time to time.
The DMs were directed to hold regular meetings with representatives of petroleum companies to review supply and distribution, and that strict action be taken to curb black marketing and hoarding in the districts bordering Nepal.
He also issued detailed instructions regarding preparations, public facilities, and security arrangements for the Home Guards recruitment examination from April 25 to 27.
The recently posted DMs were directed to ensure proper coordination with divisional commissioners and senior police officials at the ADG/IG level.
Also, keeping in mind the heatwave-like conditions over the past few days, the Chief Minister directed special inspections of all ammunition depots and firecracker factories to eliminate any risk of mishaps and ensure strict compliance with safety standards.