‘Won’t allow goons as toll agents’

Toll collection agencies will not be allowed to employ people with criminal backgrounds. "We will issue a circular asking toll collection agencies not to employ people with criminal backgrounds.

Toll collection agencies will not be allowed to employ people with criminal backgrounds. "We will issue a circular asking toll collection agencies not to employ people with criminal backgrounds. We will also ask them to remove existing employees who have criminal backgrounds," home minister RR Patil told the legislative council on Wednesday.

HT Image

The minister acknowledged that uncouth toll operators was a matter of concern. "I have received various complaints against high handed toll agents. Some people have told me that toll collectors often make a vehicle stop longer if they spot a woman inside," Patil said.

Patil's remarks came after members raised concerns over the aggressive and uncouth behaviour of toll collectors and the alleged assault on a Member of the Legislative Council by toll collectors. The home minister said he would set up an inquiry headed by Inspector General to look into the incident.

Patil said all toll collectors would be asked to submit details of employees working at toll stations. "We will file charges of extortion on any person whose name is not in the list submitted but is found collecting toll," Patil said.