The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has imposed a penalty of ₹20 lakh on the operator of Bhuni Toll Plaza in Meerut and initiated the process of terminating its contract after staffers brutally assaulted an Army jawan.

The action follows widespread outrage over a viral video that showed 26-year-old soldier Kapil Singh of the Rajput Regiment tied to a pole and beaten with sticks by toll employees on August 17. Singh was travelling to Delhi airport to rejoin duty in Srinagar when the altercation occurred.

In a statement, NHAI said:
“We strongly condemn such behaviour by toll plaza staff. NHAI is committed to ensuring safe and seamless travel on National Highways.”

The toll collecting agency, M/s Dharam Singh, will also be debarred from bidding for future toll contracts, the authority confirmed.

Police Action and Local Unrest

Meerut SSP Vipin Tanda said six toll workers have been arrested in connection with the assault. Meanwhile, angry villagers vandalised the toll plaza on Monday, forcing a heavy police deployment.

Meerut SP (Rural) Rakesh Kumar Mishra said the situation has since been brought under control and traffic movement on the Meerut–Karnal section of NH-709A has resumed.

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