Meerut, Uttar Pradesh: In a shocking incident at Bhuni Toll Plaza on the Meerut-Karnal Highway (NH-709A), Indian Army soldier Kapil Singh was allegedly tied to a pole and brutally assaulted by toll plaza staff after he requested priority passage to catch a flight back to duty in Srinagar.
Kapil Singh, who had just completed his leave and was en route to Delhi Airport with his family, requested the toll workers to allow quick passage. Instead, the situation escalated into a violent altercation, during which, according to eyewitnesses and family members, 10–12 toll employees beat him with rods after confiscating his Army ID.
Krishan Pal, Kapil’s father, demanded justice:
“He had completed his leave, and we were on our way to drop him at the airport. When we reached the toll plaza, he requested to be let through quickly. They threw away his Army card, tied him to a pole, and started beating him… Strict action should be taken.”
Kapil’s brother Pradeep also confirmed the assault, stating:
“They beat my brother with rods… Around 10-12 people were involved.”
Immediate Action Taken
Six toll plaza employees have been arrested.
An FIR has been filed under serious charges including attempt to murder, robbery, and unlawful assembly under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has fined the toll agency, M/s Dharam Singh, Rs 20 lakh, and initiated termination and blacklisting of the company from future toll bids.
The Indian Army’s Central Command has strongly condemned the assault, vowing to ensure justice and follow the case to its “logical conclusion.”
In a post on X, the Army stated:
“Indian Army strongly condemns such an incident against a serving soldier… A protest has been registered with NHAI. The Army remains committed to ensuring justice.”
Official Reactions
SP Rural Rakesh Kumar Mishra confirmed the incident:
“An argument broke out at the toll plaza, following which the staff beat the jawan. Six arrests have been made, and more will follow based on video footage.”
SSP Vipin Tanda added that the case was taken seriously after video evidence surfaced:
“It was confirmed that the victim is an Army jawan. We have arrested six individuals and are taking further action.”
Public Outrage and Protest
The incident sparked widespread outrage. Locals held a protest demanding justice and immediate action. The administration accepted four demands:
Immediate suspension of toll staff involved.
Addition of three more accused names in the FIR.
Declaration of a 10-km toll-free stretch around Bhuni Toll Plaza.
Public display of toll-exempt village names at the plaza.
NHAI Statement
In a public statement on X, NHAI said:
“NHAI has taken strict action… imposed a penalty of Rs 20 lakh and has started the process of contract termination. Such behaviour will not be tolerated. We are committed to ensuring the safety of all highway users.”
