The NSA has been used as a blunt instrument in UP. 3 min read May 15, 2026 07:17 AM IST First published on: May 15, 2026 at 06:15 AM IST In the aftermath of the workers’ protests in Noida and other parts of Uttar Pradesh last month, the state government’s response has unfolded in two contradictory ways. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urged that workers’ dignity be respected, and that “fair wages must be ensured”. A high-level committee was set up, and the Noida police announced a dedicated industrial cell to facilitate dialogue between industry, labour unions and workers. The immediate hike in minimum wages showed that the protests were a way to be heard and that the government could listen. Unfortunately, however, the protests have also invited a heavy-handed crackdown by the state. At least 60 people are in jail for their alleged role in the violence that occurred at some places during the protests.…