By the NewsPatron Editorial Desk
He gave his legs for the country during Operation Parakram. He served in the elite 21 Para SF (Special Forces). But on the eve of Republic Day, Commando Shamraj wasn’t treated like a hero—he was treated, in his own words, “like a beggar.”
A heartbreaking video from Karnataka’s Sastan Toll Plaza (Udupi) has gone viral, showing the wheelchair-bound Army veteran pleading not for money, but for the dignity of his War Casualty certificate.
The Incident: “I Don’t Want Your Alms”
The incident occurred on the night of January 25th. Commando Shamraj was travelling with his family when he was stopped at the toll gate. Despite producing valid documents—including his Battle Casualty Certificate and a letter regarding his wife’s (Lt. Col. Sivapriya) official posting—the staff allegedly refused to let him pass without paying.
Watch: The heartbreaking moment Commando Shamraj pleads for dignity.
“Is There Any Meaning to This Wheelchair?”
The most gut-wrenching moment comes when he points to his legs. “Today is Jan 25. Tomorrow is Republic Day. You tell me, why am I sitting in this wheelchair? Is there any meaning to me being in this chair?”
He questions the system that honors soldiers on stage but harasses them on the road. “If there was someone from the Army in your house, you would understand this pain. Do you think I sit in this wheelchair for fun?”
The Rules of Exemption
Under the National Highways Fee Rules, defence personnel on duty are exempt. However, War Casualties and Gallantry Award winners often face harassment due to vague interpretations by private toll operators. Shamraj was carrying an explicit exemption certificate for Octroi/Toll, yet it was ignored until the argument escalated.
Recommended Product
Amazon India – Shop Today's Best Offers
🛒 View on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Price and availability may vary.
The Bottom Line: We build memorials for our soldiers, but we fail them at the toll booth. Respect isn’t a hashtag on Republic Day; it’s treating a disabled veteran with dignity on a dark highway in Udupi.
(Read More: Kurla Boiling Point: Residents vs Hawkers)
