Sir,

Whenever a new initiative is introduced by the Government, whether it be at the Central or State level, it tends to disrupt the lives of the public. Mysureans are still recovering from the UPOR (Urban Property Ownership Records) ordeal and now they are confronted with the requirement to update KYC (Know Your Customer) for FASTag, with the deadline set for Jan.  31.

The assumption that everyone is constantly available to follow Government instructions, especially when it involves online updates, may not align with the reality of people’s lives.

Even with the privilege of having a laptop and internet connection at home, there is a sense of unease and scepticism about these mandatory updates.

This sentiment is further magnified when considering the vast number of individuals who lack such access or knowledge. The compulsory implementation of FASTag, coupled with associated costs, is met with discontent. Imposing double tolls in lieu of FASTag is perceived as a form of double extortion. The additional threat of deactivating FASTag if KYC is not promptly updated within two weeks only exacerbates the situation.

Compounding these concerns is the apparent manipulation of FASTag scanners at various toll gates, notably in Nanjangud and on Mysuru-Bengaluru highway. Instances of scanners displaying “Blacklisted” status, and subsequent confrontations — at times escalating to verbal or even physical altercations — highlight the challenges faced by users.

The prospect of deactivation adds another layer of apprehension, giving rise to concerns that toll operators may exploit the situation. In this context, the call for Government and regulatory bodies to understand their citizens, akin to the “know your customer” approach, prompts the question: When will we, as citizens, truly “know our  Government”?

– E. Venkatesh, Mysuru, 17.1.2024

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