Massive protests erupted at the Bhuni Toll Plaza in Meerut after an Army jawan was brutally thrashed by toll plaza employees, sparking outrage among locals and leading to widespread vandalism and confrontation with toll staff.
On Sunday night, Kapil Kavad, a 26-year-old Army soldier of the Rajput Regiment, was subjected to a brutal assault by employees at the Bhuni Toll Plaza on the Meerut-Karnal Highway in Uttar Pradesh. Kapil was travelling with his cousin to Delhi airport to catch a flight to Srinagar for duty after returning from leave.
Frustrated with the long queue of vehicles, Kapil requested the toll workers to expedite the process, leading to a heated argument. The toll employees allegedly tied Kapil to a pole and proceeded to violently thrash him with sticks, an act captured in CCTV footage making rounds on social media. His cousin, who tried to intervene, was also assaulted by the workers.
The video shows multiple assailants surrounding Kapil, pinning him down, and repeatedly beating him while he was restrained. One of the attackers was even seen wielding a brick, escalating the severity of the violence. During the assault, Kapil’s official Army ID card and mobile phone were reportedly confiscated by the attackers, exacerbating the humiliation. The horrifying footage stirred nationwide outrage and drew immediate attention to the incident.
Villagers Protest, Storm Toll Plaza
The assault ignited fury within Kapil’s village, Gotka, and surrounding areas. On Monday, hundreds of local villagers gathered at the Bhuni Toll Plaza to protest against the brutal treatment of the soldier. The crowd vented their anger by vandalising toll booths, smashing equipment, and confronting the toll staff.
The situation escalated quickly, leading to tense moments that required a heavy police presence to control the unrest and maintain public order. Superintendent of Police Vipin Tanda confirmed the registration of a case on the basis of the video and stated that six toll employees have been arrested, with further efforts underway to identify and detain all accused individuals.
Background and Implications
Kapil Kavad was en route to resume his posting in Srinagar when the violence occurred. The attack happened in a place where servicemen should feel safe and respected. The incident highlights issues of misconduct and lack of discipline among toll staff and raises broader concerns about the treatment of military personnel during routine public interactions.
This episode has triggered calls for stricter oversight of toll plaza operations and protective measures for armed forces personnel travelling across the country. Kapil’s relatives and fellow soldiers have expressed deep distress over the incident, demanding justice and swifter action.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The assault on Kapil Kavad is a stark and unacceptable breach of respect toward those who serve the nation with unwavering commitment. Violence only sows division and hostility, rather than resolving disputes.
The Logical Indian urges calm, compassion, and lawful approaches in addressing grievances. Our society must prioritise protecting and honouring its armed forces personnel, who put their lives on the line for all citizens.
