In a deeply shocking incident that has sparked outrage across the country, an Indian Army soldier was brutally assaulted by toll plaza employees in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut. The soldier, identified as Kapil Kavad of the prestigious Rajput Regiment, was tied to a pole and mercilessly beaten by toll workers after a heated argument at the Bhuni Toll Plaza on the Meerut–Karnal highway.

The disturbing visuals of the assault went viral on social media, showing the jawan being slapped, kicked, and hit with sticks by multiple men, while some pinned him to a pole, preventing any chance of escape. The incident, which took place when Kapil was on his way back to duty in Srinagar, has raised serious questions about safety at toll plazas and the alarming trend of rising violence against armed forces personnel and veterans in Uttar Pradesh.

Who Was the Victim?

The victim, Kapil Kavad, is a serving soldier with the Rajput Regiment of the Indian Army. A native of Gotka village in Sarurpur police station limits, Kapil had just completed his vacation with family and was heading towards Delhi Airport along with his cousin to catch a flight to Srinagar, where he was to rejoin his post.

Reports suggest that Kapil was in a hurry due to a long traffic queue at the Bhuni toll plaza. In an attempt to resolve the situation and ensure he reached the airport on time, he stepped out of his vehicle to speak with the toll staff.

How Did the Altercation Begin?

According to initial police investigations, the scuffle began after Kapil requested the toll plaza employees to allow his vehicle to pass quickly, citing both his urgent duty-related travel and the fact that his village lies in an exempted toll zone. However, what should have been a routine clarification spiraled into a heated argument.

Eyewitnesses revealed that instead of resolving the issue, the toll employees allegedly grew aggressive. Within moments, the verbal spat turned violent as at least five to ten toll workers attacked Kapil and his cousin, dragging them out of the vehicle.

#MeerutPolice
थानाक्षेत्र सरूरपुर अन्तर्गत भूनी टोल प्लाजा पर टोलकर्मियों द्वारा भारतीय सेना के जवान के साथ की गयी मारपीट की घटना में पुलिस द्वारा त्वरित कार्यवाही करते हुए 04 अभियुक्तों को गिरफ्तार किया गया है। उक्त सम्बन्ध में पुलिस अधीक्षक ग्रामीण द्वारा बाईट। #UPPolice pic.twitter.com/W8XUW1GLue— MEERUT POLICE (@meerutpolice) August 18, 2025

Brutal Assault Caught on Camera

The most horrifying aspect of the incident was that it was caught on CCTV and mobile cameras, with the footage now circulating widely online.

The video showed:

• Kapil being held by multiple men and tied to a pole.

• Several assailants raining blows on him with sticks.

• Some employees slapping and kicking him repeatedly.

• At one point, one of the attackers even picked up a brick, threatening to use it against the soldier.

This shocking footage has fueled nationwide outrage, with many demanding stricter action against the culprits and improved protection for serving and retired soldiers.

Police Action: Four Arrested So Far

Following a complaint lodged by Kapil’s family, a case was registered at the Sarurpur police station. Superintendent of Police (Rural), Rakesh Kumar Mishra, confirmed that swift action was taken:

“Kapil is a serving soldier of the Indian Army. He was returning to duty in Srinagar when this unfortunate incident took place. Based on the complaint and available CCTV evidence, four accused have been arrested. Additional police teams are working to identify and nab the remaining attackers.”

The arrested individuals are being interrogated, while police teams continue to scan video footage to track down others involved in the assault. A manhunt is underway to ensure all culprits face justice.

In UP's Meerut, an Army Jawan identified as Kapil, returning to the base in J&K, was brutally assaulted by toll plaza staffers after he objected to the long queue at the toll booth. The Army Jawan, was held by a pole and flogged by the miscreants. pic.twitter.com/RGWxtBvhQX— Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) August 18, 2025

Public Uproar and Community Reaction

News of the incident spread rapidly, triggering anger not just in Kapil’s village but across the region. Locals gathered at the toll plaza in large numbers, demanding stringent punishment for the guilty. Social media has been abuzz with citizens, veterans, and serving Army personnel condemning the brutality.

The fact that an Army jawan—someone entrusted with safeguarding the nation—was humiliated and assaulted in such a manner within his own homeland has struck a nerve with the public. Many have called for stricter regulation of toll plaza operations and better accountability of staff.

A Disturbing Pattern of Violence Against Soldiers

This is not an isolated case in Uttar Pradesh. The Meerut assault comes just weeks after another horrifying incident in Deoria, where a 65-year-old retired Army jawan, Ramdayal Kushwaha, was beaten to death by his neighbour over a land dispute.

Police reports indicated that Kushwaha had objected to his neighbour driving through his property, which escalated into a violent clash. He was severely thrashed and later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

These back-to-back assaults on serving and retired Army personnel have raised concerns about the safety and respect accorded to soldiers in civilian spaces.

Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation

The Meerut Police have assured a comprehensive investigation into the case. The Superintendent of Police (Rural) reiterated that no one involved would be spared and more arrests are expected as teams continue to analyze CCTV and viral videos of the incident.

Meanwhile, the Army has not officially released a statement, but sources indicate that the matter is being monitored closely.

A Call for Stricter Action and Respect for Soldiers

The brutal assault on Army jawan Kapil Kavad at Bhuni Toll Plaza is not just a local law-and-order issue—it is a stark reminder of the vulnerability faced by even those who dedicate their lives to protecting the nation.

While the arrests of four accused bring some relief, the incident underscores the urgent need for:

• Stricter laws against assaults on armed forces personnel.

• Better monitoring and regulation of toll plaza operations.

• Public awareness to ensure disputes do not spiral into violent attacks.

As investigations continue, the nation watches closely, demanding justice for Kapil and ensuring that such disrespect and brutality against soldiers never repeats.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

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