A dramatic and disturbing incident unfolded at the Ladhowal toll plaza in Ludhiana late Saturday night when a group of car-borne individuals opened fire at toll staff after being asked to show their ID cards. The shocking act, captured on CCTV, has since spread rapidly across social media, drawing widespread condemnation.
Accused Insist on VIP Lane, Claim ‘Official Position’
According to toll plaza employees, the confrontation began when the occupants of a car approached the VIP lane and insisted on passing through without verification. One of them allegedly claimed to be the chairman of a department, a statement that immediately raised suspicion.
When the staff politely asked them to provide official identification, the group reportedly became aggressive. Within moments, the situation escalated into violence.
Five Rounds of Fire; Staff Escape Narrowly
Toll plaza worker Kuljit Singh described the harrowing moments that followed. He said the car, coming from the Ludhiana side and heading towards Phillaur, carried seven to eight individuals. Without warning, they fired five gunshots toward the staff.
The toll workers managed to dodge the bullets and even attempted to restrain the accused. But the group quickly fled, speeding away towards the South City bridge.
CCTV Footage Goes Viral, Police Begin Probe
The entire incident was recorded on the toll plaza’s CCTV cameras. Video clips of the men charging aggressively at the staff and firing shots have now gone viral, prompting public outrage and calls for strict action.
Police reached the site shortly after receiving information and have begun a detailed investigation. Officers are examining CCTV footage from the plaza and nearby areas to track the vehicle and identify the suspects.
A senior police official confirmed that strict action will be taken once the individuals involved are traced. The motive behind the false VIP claim is also under scrutiny.
Growing Concerns Over Misuse of VIP Privileges
The shooting has reignited conversations around the misuse of VIP lanes and false claims of official status. Toll workers across Punjab have repeatedly voiced concerns about intimidation by individuals claiming undue privileges.
Saturday’s incident highlights the need for stricter enforcement and better protection for frontline toll staff, who often face hostility during routine checks.
The gunfire at Ludhiana’s Ladhowal toll plaza has raised serious questions about public safety and the boldness of miscreants who misuse VIP tags. As police continue their probe, the incident serves as a reminder of the growing challenges faced by toll workers across the region.