Disabled war hero asked to pay toll despite showing documents in K’taka, NHAI responds
In a shocking incident, a disabled war hero, an ex-Para SF commando, was asked to pay toll at the Sasthan toll plaza in Udupi, Karnataka, despite showing documents of exemption. The commando, who suffered injuries during an operation, was left disabled and is now facing difficulties in his daily life. However, the toll plaza authorities seemed to be unmoved by his situation, demanding that he pay the toll fee.
The commando, who wishes to remain anonymous, stated that he was not asked to pay toll at earlier plazas, which makes this incident even more surprising. He had been traveling through the state, visiting different places, and had not encountered any issues at other toll plazas. However, when he reached the Sasthan toll plaza, he was asked to pay the toll fee, despite showing his documents of exemption.
The documents, which include his disability certificate and identity proof, clearly state that he is exempt from paying toll fees. However, the toll plaza authorities seemed to be unaware of these documents or simply chose to ignore them. The commando was left feeling frustrated and humiliated by the incident, which has raised questions about the treatment of disabled war heroes in the country.
In response to the incident, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued a statement, which has sparked controversy. According to NHAI, “Toll fee exemption applies only to serving Army personnel on official duty.” This statement has been met with criticism, as many feel that it does not take into account the sacrifices made by disabled war heroes like the commando.
The NHAI’s statement seems to imply that only serving Army personnel are eligible for toll fee exemption, and not disabled war heroes who have retired from service. This has raised questions about the government’s policies towards disabled war heroes, who have made significant sacrifices for the country. Many feel that these heroes should be treated with dignity and respect, and should not be asked to pay toll fees.
The incident has also highlighted the need for better awareness and understanding of the documents and certificates issued to disabled war heroes. The toll plaza authorities should have been aware of the documents and should have exempted the commando from paying the toll fee. The lack of awareness and understanding has led to the commando being asked to pay the toll fee, which is unacceptable.
The government has been criticized for its treatment of disabled war heroes, who often face difficulties in their daily lives. Many disabled war heroes struggle to access basic amenities and services, and are often forced to fight for their rights. The incident at the Sasthan toll plaza is just one example of the difficulties faced by these heroes, and highlights the need for better support and care.
In recent years, there have been several incidents of disabled war heroes facing difficulties and being mistreated. Many have been forced to fight for their pensions and benefits, and have faced significant delays and bureaucratic hurdles. The government has been criticized for its slow response to the needs of disabled war heroes, and for not doing enough to support them.
The incident at the Sasthan toll plaza has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with many calling for better treatment of disabled war heroes. The government has been urged to take immediate action to address the issues faced by these heroes, and to ensure that they are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
In conclusion, the incident at the Sasthan toll plaza is a shocking reminder of the difficulties faced by disabled war heroes in the country. The commando’s experience is just one example of the lack of awareness and understanding of the documents and certificates issued to these heroes. The NHAI’s response has sparked controversy, and has raised questions about the government’s policies towards disabled war heroes. The government must take immediate action to address the issues faced by these heroes, and to ensure that they are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Source: https://x.com/NHAIROBengaluru/status/2015805264314986909
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