Army Jawan Assault at Meerut Toll Plaza: Deep Mental Impact and Demand for Justice
Army jawan Kapil Panwar, who suffered a vicious attack by toll plaza employees in Meerut on August 17, expressed that the incident has inflicted a deeper psychological trauma than physical harm. "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 receiving treatment at a military hospital.
The altercation took place at the Bhuni toll plaza while Kapil, hailing from Gotka village, was en route to Delhi airport for his duty in Srinagar. He had requested expedited passage by presenting his Army identity card, but the staff allegedly mistreated him and attacked him with sticks and rods. His father, uncle, and cousin, who were traveling with him, could not intervene as the vehicle's doors were jammed.
Kapil's parents have called for stringent measures, stating, "Our son risks his life at the border, only to be attacked at home."
In response to the public backlash, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) revoked the private operator’s contract, levied a ₹20 lakh penalty on M/s Dharam Singh, and assumed direct management of the toll plaza. Narendra Singh, the project director, mentioned that a 15-member NHAI team has taken charge and the cash counters have been reopened.
The Meerut Police reported that eight individuals have been arrested, including Ravi from Karnawal, who was detained late Tuesday night. Senior Superintendent of Police Vipin Tada confirmed that searches are ongoing for others involved, and security has been heightened at all toll plazas. He also emphasized that toll staff have been instructed to treat commuters with respect.
The assault involving Kapil and his companions Shivam and Sudhir, who were reportedly attacked with sticks and iron rods, was captured in a video that went viral on social media, igniting widespread outrage and local protests.
Based on the complaint filed by Kapil’s father, the police have registered a case under charges of attempt to murder, unlawful assembly, and robbery under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
The Indian Army's Central Command condemned the attack, stating that it had reached out to senior officials of the Uttar Pradesh Police to ensure that justice is served. "The Indian Army remains committed to ensuring justice and will pursue the case to its logical conclusion," it stated.
