Udupi Toll Staff Issues Apology Following Viral Video of Ex-Serviceman Harassment
Staff members at the Sasthan toll plaza in Udupi have issued a formal apology after a video went viral on social media, alleging that an ex-serviceman was harassed over toll payment on Sunday night. The incident has sparked widespread concern and prompted immediate action from local authorities.
Police Intervention and Sensitization
Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar confirmed that the ex-serviceman involved has not pressed any charges. In response to the viral video, all staff members implicated in the incident were summoned to the police station. They were sensitized on appropriate conduct, with a special emphasis on how to interact respectfully with ex-servicemen and serving Armed Forces personnel.
Details of the Viral Incident
The video features Commando Shyamraj of the 21 Para Special Forces, a war casualty from Operation Parakram, who was seen in a wheelchair. He presented documents indicating that he had passed through other toll booths without any issues, carrying a certificate of exemption related to his wife's posting. Despite producing these exemption papers, Shyamraj claimed that employees Suresh and Shivraj at the Sasthan toll booth stopped him, leading to the confrontation.
In the video, Shyamraj is also heard questioning Union Minister Nitin Gadkari over the incident, highlighting the broader implications for toll policies and veteran treatment.
Toll Staff's Response and Apology
The toll staff involved stated that the incident occurred around 9 PM. They explained that when Shyamraj presented his ex-serviceman ID, they initially said there was no exemption. After he provided his disability ID, they consulted their seniors, but the response was delayed. Eventually, they granted the exemption and issued an apology. In a released apology video, the staff expressed regret, saying, "We apologise for hurting the officer."
This case underscores ongoing challenges in toll booth operations and the need for better training to handle sensitive situations involving veterans and individuals with disabilities.
