NHAI Penalizes Toll Agency ₹20 Lakh, Initiates Blacklisting After Meerut Plaza Incident Involving Army Personnel
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken decisive measures against the toll collection agency involved in the incident of misconduct with an Army personnel at Bhuni Toll Plaza, located on the Meerut–Karnal stretch of NH-709A, which occurred on August 17.
The incident, which began as a verbal dispute and escalated into a physical altercation, has led NHAI to levy a ₹20 lakh fine on the toll operator, M/s Dharam Singh. This action was prompted by what NHAI identified as a significant violation of contract terms and a failure to uphold staff conduct standards.
Beyond the financial penalty, NHAI has also commenced proceedings to terminate and potentially debar the agency. This could result in the agency being prohibited from bidding on future toll plaza contracts.
In a related development, the Uttar Pradesh Police have filed an FIR and have detained six individuals associated with the altercation.
NHAI has expressed strong disapproval of the toll staff's actions, reiterating its dedication to maintaining safe and smooth travel conditions on National Highways.
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The steps taken by NHAI so far are far from enough to prevent such disgraceful incidents in the future. It is deeply disturbing that Defence personnel, who guard our nation with courage and sacrifice, are subjected to disrespect at toll plazas. Instead of trained and disciplined staff, many of these agencies employ aggressive individuals who harass even those who are exempt from tolls. Such behavior is not just negligence — it is an insult to the men and women who risk their lives every day for our safety.
Stricter policies and accountability must be enforced immediately to ensure that no soldier, officer, or veteran is ever humiliated in this manner again. Our defenders should never be made to fight unnecessary battles within their own country. As a true gesture of gratitude, the Government should also extend toll exemptions to retired Defence personnel — a small but powerful tribute to their lifelong devotion and sacrifice for the nation.
A country that fails to respect its protectors, undermines its own honour. It is time to act.