Kota, January 26, 2026 — A retired soldier from the 21 Para Special Forces, Shyamaraj, faced humiliation at the Sastan Toll Plaza on National Highway on the eve of Republic Day when toll staff refused to grant him exemption despite valid documentation, leading to a viral video that has triggered widespread anger across social media and local communities.

Shyamaraj, a resident of Kasaragod district, was travelling with his wife (a serving military nurse) from one posting to another via Sastan . He presented the official RMF (Retired Military Family) exemption letter, which entitles ex-servicemen to free passage at toll plazas nationwide. However, the toll personnel allegedly ignored the document, demanded payment, and spoke disrespectfully, prompting Shyamaraj to record the incident on his phone.

In the widely circulated video, Shyamaraj is heard saying: “All toll plazas across the country provide exemption to retired soldiers, but here at Sastan, they are refusing even after seeing the official letter.”

Shyamaraj, a veteran of Operation Parakram, survived a landmine blast that claimed the lives of 15 soldiers. He remained in coma for 15 days and suffered severe spinal injuries, resulting in permanent disability. Despite his sacrifices, the toll staff’s behaviour has been condemned as deeply disrespectful.

Following the video going viral, the toll personnel reportedly realised their mistake and apologised to Shyamaraj. However, public outrage continues, with demands for strict adherence to the national toll exemption policy for ex-servicemen and disciplinary action against the responsible staff.