Army Soldier Assaulted by Toll Staff Over Exemption Dispute at Meerut-Karnal Highway Plaza, 4 Arrested.
Meerut:
In a deeply disturbing incident that has sparked public outrage, an Indian Army soldier, Kapil Kavid, was allegedly assaulted by toll plaza staff at the Bhuni toll plaza on the Meerut-Karnal highway, while he was en route to rejoin duty in Srinagar.
The incident, which was captured on video and widely circulated on social media, shows Kapil being brutally beaten with sticks by multiple toll booth workers. In the video, some of the attackers can be seen pinning him against a pole, twisting his arms behind his back, hurling verbal abuse, and repeatedly assaulting him.
Kapil, who serves in the Indian Army, was on his way to Delhi airport with his cousin when the altercation took place. He was reportedly returning to his post in Srinagar after leave. The clash allegedly began after Kapil requested toll exemption, stating that his village falls within a toll-free zone.
According to Rakesh Mishra, Superintendent of Police (Rural), the disagreement escalated into a physical confrontation. “Kapil claimed that he was eligible for toll exemption as per existing rules. However, the toll staff refused and a heated argument followed, leading to the assault,” SP Mishra confirmed.
Kapil’s family later filed a formal complaint at the Sarurpur Police Station, prompting an immediate police response. Based on video evidence and CCTV footage, police identified and arrested four of the accused involved in the attack.
“Two special police teams have been deployed to arrest the remaining suspects,” said SP Mishra. He also assured that strict legal action will be taken against all those involved, and investigations are ongoing to verify the details and sequence of events.
The assault has drawn widespread condemnation, with many expressing shock over the treatment of a serving army personnel. Several citizens and veterans have taken to social media demanding accountability and swift justice for the soldier.
The incident also raises broader questions about the enforcement of toll policies and the behavior of toll staff, particularly in dealing with servicemen and other exempted travelers.
Authorities have stated that they are reviewing standard operating procedures at toll plazas and may issue further guidelines to avoid such confrontations in the future.
Meanwhile, Kapil is reported to be recovering from the physical injuries sustained in the attack. His statement has been recorded by police as part of the investigation.
