Army jawan Kapil Panwar, who was brutally assaulted by toll plaza staff in Meerut on August 17, said the attack has left a wound far deeper than physical injuries. “The injuries on the body will heal with time, but the wound to the mind will remain for life. I have no hesitation facing enemies at the border, but the behaviour meted out to me in my own country is the biggest scar,” said Kapil, who is currently admitted at the military hospital.
The incident occurred at Bhuni toll plaza when Kapil, a resident of Gotka village, was travelling to Delhi airport to join duty in Srinagar. He had requested quick passage by showing his Army identity card, but staff allegedly misbehaved and assaulted him with sticks and rods. His father, uncle, and cousin—travelling with him—were unable to intervene as the car doors got jammed.
Parents demand justice
Kapil’s parents demanded strict action, saying, “Our son risks his life at the border, only to be attacked at home.”
NHAI cancels contract, takes over toll
Following public outrage, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) terminated the private operator’s contract, imposed a ₹20 lakh penalty on M/s Dharam Singh, and took direct control of the toll plaza. A 15-member NHAI team has now assumed charge, with cash counters being reopened, project director Narendra Singh said.
8 arrested so far
Meerut Police said eight accused have been arrested, including Ravi, a resident of Karnawal, detained late Tuesday night. Senior Superintendent of Police Vipin Tada confirmed searches are on for others and security has been tightened at all toll plazas. He added that toll staff have been strictly instructed to maintain courtesy with commuters.
Viral video sparks protests
On the night of the incident, Kapil and his companions Shivam and Sudhir were allegedly attacked with sticks and iron rods. A video of the assault went viral on social media, triggering massive outrage and local protests.
Police registered the case on Kapil’s father’s complaint under charges of attempt to murder, unlawful assembly, and robbery under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Army condemns attack
The Indian Army’s Central Command strongly condemned the assault, stating it had approached senior Uttar Pradesh Police officials to ensure justice. “The Indian Army remains committed to ensuring justice and will pursue the case to its logical conclusion,” it said in a statement.
