Political Son Caught on CCTV Assaulting Toll Staff Over Fees

A recent incident at the Kannooli toll gate in Karnataka has sparked outrage after a CCTV video surfaced showing Samarth Gowda Patil, the son of a local political leader, allegedly assaulting toll staff members. The confrontation occurred when Patil, reportedly seeking free passage, was denied entry and became aggressive.

The assailant has been identified as Samarth Gowda Patil, son of Vijugowda Patil, a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a former candidate from the Babaleshwar constituency. The situation escalated on October 30, 2025, when Patil’s vehicle arrived at the toll plaza, and he demanded to pass without paying the fee, claiming his political connections.

Video footage captured the tense exchange between Patil and the toll workers. In the clip, he is heard asking, “Do you know who I am? I am the son of BJP leader Vijugowda Patil.” Tensions flared when a staff member reportedly questioned, “Which Vijugowda?” This inquiry appeared to trigger Patil’s violent response.

The video shows Patil exiting his vehicle and physically attacking a toll worker named Sangappa, who was pushed, slapped, and struck during the confrontation. Another individual from Patil’s vehicle joined in the assault until other toll employees intervened. Following the incident, Sangappa was transported to Sindagi Taluk Hospital for treatment of his injuries.

Authorities are currently investigating the incident while confirming the authenticity of the video. Police have begun to gather information regarding the altercation but have stated that no formal complaint has been lodged by the toll staff as of now.

This incident raises questions about the behavior of public figures and the influence of political connections in everyday situations. The toll staff’s refusal to back down highlights the challenges faced by individuals working in roles that require them to enforce regulations, even when confronted by those in positions of power.

As investigations continue, the police have assured the public that they will conduct a thorough inquiry into the matter, emphasizing that all parties involved will be held accountable for their actions.