The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) on Monday initiated the process of terminating the contract of the firm managing toll collection at the Bhuni toll plaza and imposed a fine of Rs 20 lakh after its staffer pinned an army jawan to a pole and trashed him on August 17.

The NHAI is also in the process of debarring the firm from participating in any future toll plaza bids. The agency's action came after the video of the incident went viral, prompting protest by villagers and vandalism at toll plaza. So far six people have been arrested in the case.

In a statement, the NHAI condemnded the incident, saying, "NHAI strongly condemns such behaviour by the toll plaza staff and is committed to ensuring safe and seamless travel on National Highways".

ALSO READ: Rajasthan: Man Found Stuffed In Blue Drum In Tijara; Missing Wife And Kids Spark Fears Of Another Meerut-Style Murder

A video of the Bhuni toll plaza incident on the Meerut-Karnal section of NH-709A went viral on social media, showing a 26-year-old soldier, Kapil Singh of the Rajput Regiment, being tied to a pole and kicked, punched and thrashed.

Soon the video went viral and protests erupted. Angry villagers reached the Bhuni toll plaza and vandalised it on Monday. Taking action in the case, Meerut Police arrested six of the staff members of the toll collection firm.

Speaking about the protest and arrest, senior superintendent of police Vipin Tanda said that the situation has been brought under control. He said, "Enraged by yesterday’s attack on army man, a group of villagers staged a protest at the toll plaza. The situation has been brought under control. Regular movement of traffic continues".

ALSO READ: Delhi Police Rescue Teen Sold For Rs 20,000, Forced To Marry 40-Year-Old In UP After Fleeing Home; 3 Held

The police officials said that the jawan was heading to catch a flight to Srinagar to join his duty. On his way, he asked the toll plaza staff for a quick passage. This led to heated moment and he was attacked.