Ever since the PM Modi declared the historic move demonetisation on November 8, 2016, people have gone easy on hard cash. From malls, grocery shops to even little tea-stalls on roadsides — many now depend on digital money and swiping debit cards for almost all transactions.
Usually, debit cards offer a lot of convenience to users, but at times, they create a big mess. Yes, this doctor might be regretting his decision of swiping his debit card at the toll gate. A payment of Rs 40, cost this doctor Rs 4 lakhs!
Yes, you heard it right!
This shocking incident took place in Mangaluru at Gundmi toll gate on the Kochi-Mumbai National Highway near Udupi around 10:30 pm on March 11.
According to a report by Times of India, the police identified the man as Dr. Rao, who was in a chauffeur-driven car on his way to Mumbai. When his car stopped at the toll gate at night, he gave his debit card to the toll attendant for paying Rs 40.
After the toll collector swiped the card, he gave the toll receipt and POS receipt to Dr. Rao and he left. However, he was shocked when he received an SMS about Rs 4 lakhs being deducted from the account.
Reportedly he brought the situation to the notice of the toll attendants, who refused to admit or acknowledge their mistake, even after the doctor reportedly tried explaining them for about two hours!
It was around 1 am that the doctor went to the police station to lodge a complaint. After few minutes, he returned to the toll plaza with a constable.
On being questioned by the head constable, the toll attendant agreed his fault; well, he had entered the wrong amount. Instead of Rs 40, he entered Rs 4,00,000. The officials promised to return the amount by cheque, but the doctor wasn’t ready to accept it because he wanted cash.
Senior officials were contacted and finally, the doctor got back his Rs 3,99,960 in cash. The matter finally got settled at around 4 am.
Well, if not utterly bizarre, then it definitely seems a classic case of how negligent digitization can go awry. So guys, be very careful while using your debit card. Check the amount carefully and then leave the place.
What’s your take on this? Have you faced a similar experience before? If yes, Let us know in our comments section below.