Vijayapura: A shocking incident from Kannoli toll plaza on the Vijayapura–Kalaburagi highway has surfaced online, allegedly showing Samarthgouda, the son of BJP leader Vijugouda Patil, and his friends assaulting and verbally abusing a toll booth employee. The video, captured by CCTV cameras, went viral on Thursday and has sparked widespread outrage on social media.
Video shows alleged assault at toll plaza
According to reports, the incident occurred when Samarthgouda and his friends were travelling from Vijayapura to Sindagi. When their vehicle stopped at the toll booth, the staffer on duty asked them to pay the toll fee as per procedure. Samarthgouda, reportedly angered by the request, can be heard in the video challenging the employee and saying, “Do you know who I am? I am the son of BJP leader Vijugouda Patil.”
The altercation escalated when the toll worker allegedly responded, “Which Vijugouda?” In reaction, Samarthgouda and his companions are seen in the footage attacking and shouting at the staffer. Other toll employees quickly intervened to prevent further violence.
Staffer injured, receives treatment
The assaulted employee has been identified as Sangappa, who suffered injuries during the incident. He was immediately rushed to the Sindagi Taluk Hospital for medical treatment. Fortunately, his condition is said to be stable.
Local residents and commuters who witnessed the confrontation reportedly expressed concern over the high-handed behaviour of influential individuals at public facilities, demanding that strict action be taken.
Police yet to receive complaint
Police officials confirmed that they are aware of the incident after the CCTV footage went viral. A senior officer from Sindagi Police Station said that no formal complaint has been filed by the toll staff so far, but the department is monitoring the situation closely.
“The incident came to our attention through social media. As of now, we have not received an official complaint from the toll plaza management or the victim. Once we receive a written complaint, necessary action will be initiated as per law,” the officer stated.
Public outcry over viral video
The footage has triggered widespread anger online, with many users criticising the misuse of political power and demanding accountability from the BJP leader’s family. Several social media users tagged Karnataka Police, urging them to take suo motu action even if no complaint has been registered.
Political analysts noted that the incident could create embarrassment for the local BJP leadership, particularly with elections approaching. “Such behaviour by relatives of politicians often damages the party’s image, especially when caught on camera,” said a local journalist from Vijayapura.
Call for accountability
Civic groups in the district have urged authorities to ensure that toll booth staff receive protection against harassment. “These employees are simply doing their duty. Assaulting them for enforcing toll payment rules is unacceptable,” said a representative from a local transport association.
As the video continues to circulate widely, pressure is mounting on law enforcement agencies to act. Whether or not the victim files a complaint, legal experts point out that the police can register a case suo motu based on video evidence if the assault is clearly visible.
The incident underscores recurring issues of entitlement and intimidation faced by public service workers across the country, reigniting debates on whether stronger legal protections are needed for toll and transport personnel.