The manager of the Baddo-Patti toll plaza on the Hisar-Chandigarh highway near Barwala town in Hisar district was allegedly killed by a group of youths travelling in a Scorpio vehicle. The incident happened on Monday night after a dispute over a toll fee of Rs 130.
The toll plaza manager asked the youths, who are from a nearby village, to show a local ID so the fee could be waived. After the youths showed their IDs, the manager then asked for the vehicle registration certificate. This request led to an argument between the two sides.
As the situation escalated, the youths allegedly drove the Scorpio and hit the manager. The manager fell onto the road, and the Scorpio then ran over him. Sources told media that the police recovered a pistol from the spot, though it is not clear whether any shots were fired during the incident.
This incident is a stark reminder of how quickly a minor disagreement can turn deadly. An argument over Rs 130 — a small amount for most people — led to the loss of a life. In our view, this tragedy highlights the need for better security at toll plazas and stricter action against road rage. The fact that a pistol was recovered from the scene also raises serious questions about the availability of weapons and the mindset of those involved. This was not a planned crime, but the outcome was just as devastating. We hope the police investigation brings the perpetrators to justice swiftly.
