Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Jan 26: Strong protests erupted at the Sasthan toll gate on Republic Day after a retired soldier, seriously injured during military service, was allegedly denied toll exemption and subjected to humiliating treatment by toll staff.

Former servicemen and members of the National Highway Horata Committee, Sasthan, staged a road blockade, sharply condemning the incident.

Speaking to the media, National Highway Agitation Committee president Shyamasundar Nairy described the behaviour of the toll staff as “inhumane” and said a formal complaint had been lodged with the Udupi district superintendent of police.

The aggrieved soldier, Shyamaraj, a paratrooper from the elite 21st Para Special Forces and a native of Kasaragod district, was travelling in connection with official posting-related work. Despite producing a valid toll exemption letter issued by the RMA, toll staff allegedly refused to honour it. His wife currently serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Military Nursing Service.

Protesters strongly condemned the incident, stating that such treatment of a soldier who risked his life for the nation is disgraceful, and demanded immediate action against those responsible.

Brahmavar police station inspector Praveen Kumar R visited the site and held discussions with the protesters. Sasthan toll gate manager Rajkumar later arrived, apologised for the incident, and assured that such lapses would not be repeated. Following this assurance, the protesters withdrew their agitation.