A man was assaulted by toll plaza staff at Gananguru in Mandya after a dispute over insufficient FASTag balance. The incident, caught on video, shows him being chased and beaten, sparking public outrage. While some blamed toll staff, others questioned the driver’s responsibility. Authorities have begun an investigation.
A disturbing incident has come to light from Karnataka’s Mandya district, where a young man was allegedly assaulted by toll plaza staff after a dispute over FASTag balance. The incident took place at the Gananguru toll plaza on the busy Bengaluru–Mysuru Highway two days ago. The victim, identified as Mahesh, was travelling with friends when the issue began during a routine toll check.
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Argument over FASTag balance
According to sources, toll staff found that there was not enough balance in the FASTag linked to Mahesh’s vehicle, according to a report by News First Prime. What should have been a simple payment issue quickly turned into a heated argument.
Mahesh reportedly requested some time to arrange the money. He also tried to reverse his car while calling friends for help. However, instead of resolving the matter calmly, toll employees allegedly began verbally abusing him.
Alleged assault caught on camera
Eyewitnesses said the situation became worse when toll workers reportedly took Mahesh’s mobile phone and started attacking him. He was allegedly chased, manhandled and beaten in full public view.
Many bystanders described the behaviour of the staff as ‘goonda-like’. A video of the incident, recorded on a mobile phone, has now gone viral on social media.
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The video has drawn strong reactions from people online, with many questioning how toll staff could resort to violence over a payment issue.
Mixed reactions from public
Social media users have shared different views. Some demanded strict punishment, saying toll workers have no right to assault anyone. Others argued that users must maintain proper FASTag balance if they use highway services.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has also responded. In a statement, it said that, based on initial records and video evidence, the incident involved a commercial vehicle seeking exemption due to low FASTag balance.
Investigation underway
Authorities have taken note of the viral video and confirmed that an investigation is in progress. Officials are expected to review the footage and take action against those found guilty.
Commuters have called for strict rules and better behaviour from toll staff. Many stressed that even if there is a dispute, it should be handled legally and peacefully.
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Concerns over safety and conduct
The incident has raised serious concerns about safety at toll plazas. FASTag was introduced to make travel smoother and avoid delays, but cases like this show that human behaviour still plays a key role.
Experts say toll staff must be properly trained to deal with such situations without using force. Ensuring safety and respect for travellers should remain the top priority.