Karwar: Recent incidents at the Holegedde toll plaza near Kumta have sparked outrage as passengers from Mangaluru were assaulted by toll staff. Allegations have arisen against police and a government doctor for their lenient response and failure to take stringent action against the accused.

During a press conference at the Karwar Press Bhavan, High Court lawyer Prakash detailed the events of February 16, criticizing the police for their delayed arrival at the scene and their lackadaisical approach towards the victims. He expressed concern over the police's handling of the victims, accusing them of neglecting serious injuries and attempting to downplay the incident.

Prakash highlighted a particularly distressing assault on three young adults and a 14-year-old girl, noting the police's failure to include the girl's assault in the FIR and questioning why charges under the POCSO Act were not pursued. This oversight has fueled suspicions of collusion between the police and toll staff. Despite multiple assailants being involved, only three have been detained, leaving the identities of the remaining attackers unrecorded in the FIR. Prakash demanded a more serious investigation by the police, especially given that one of the victims was a toddler.

Mangaluru social worker Putra Acharya criticized the medical response, pointing out the lack of engagement from the doctor who treated the 14-year-old victim. Acharya called for the suspension of the government hospital doctor for their negligent attitude.

Acharya also raised concerns about the toll plaza's security measures, noting the absence of functioning CCTV cameras and the presence of weapons, including iron rods, used in the assault. She urged the district administration to hold the toll gate officials and the negligent doctor accountable.

Victim Mujeeb Syed shared his account of the attack, explaining it stemmed from a misunderstanding caused by a technical issue with their vehicle's Fastag. Despite having funds in their Fastag, a scanning error led to a confrontation with the toll staff, culminating in a violent attack involving iron rods and resulting in property damage. Syed emphasized the need for justice and the arrest of all involved assailants.