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 in an operation and got disabled, was traveling through the toll plaza when he was stopped and asked to pay the toll fee. What’s surprising is that he was not asked to pay toll at earlier plazas, which raises questions about the consistency and fairness of the toll collection system.
The ex-Para SF commando, who wishes to remain anonymous, said that he was shocked and disappointed when he was asked to pay the toll fee despite showing his documents of exemption. He claimed that he had all the necessary documents, including his disability certificate and identity proof, which clearly stated that he was exempt from paying toll fees. However, the toll plaza staff refused to accept his documents and demanded that he pay the toll fee.
This incident has sparked outrage and anger among the public, with many questioning the sensitivity and respect shown to a disabled war hero. The incident has also raised questions about the implementation of toll fee exemption policies and the training of toll plaza staff. It is unacceptable that a disabled war hero, who has made sacrifices for the country, is treated in such a manner.
In response to the incident, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued a statement clarifying its stance on toll fee exemption. According to NHAI, “Toll fee exemption applies only to serving Army personnel on official duty.” This statement has sparked further controversy, with many arguing that the exemption should be extended to all disabled war heroes, regardless of their current status.
The NHAI’s response has been criticized for being insensitive and bureaucratic. While the statement may be technically correct, it fails to take into account the spirit of the exemption policy, which is to show respect and gratitude to those who have served the country. A disabled war hero, who has made sacrifices for the country, should be treated with dignity and respect, and not be subjected to the same rules and regulations as ordinary citizens.
The incident has also highlighted the need for better training and awareness among toll plaza staff. It is essential that toll plaza staff are trained to handle such situations with sensitivity and respect. They should be aware of the exemption policies and procedures and be able to handle such situations with dignity and respect.
The incident has sparked a debate about the treatment of disabled war heroes in India. While the country claims to honor and respect its war heroes, incidents like these reveal a different reality. Disabled war heroes face numerous challenges and difficulties in their daily lives, and it is essential that the government and other authorities take steps to address these challenges and show respect and gratitude to those who have served the country.
In conclusion, the incident of a disabled war hero being asked to pay toll despite showing documents of exemption is a shocking and disturbing one. It highlights the need for better implementation of toll fee exemption policies and the training of toll plaza staff. The NHAI’s response to the incident has been criticized for being insensitive and bureaucratic, and it is essential that the authority takes steps to address the concerns and grievances of disabled war heroes. The country must show respect and gratitude to those who have served the country, and incidents like these must be avoided in the future.
Source: https://x.com/NHAIROBengaluru/status/2015805264314986909
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