Maharashtra Transport Minister Diwakar Raote's son reportedly got into an argument with police officials, who suspected he was driving his car under influence of alcohol, a charge denied by his father.
The incident took place near Mahim last night and today Raote defended his 38-year-old son, claiming he has not broken any law. The Shiv Sena leader, however, added, he scolded his son for arguing with police officials.
The minister maintained his name should not be dragged into any controversy surrounding his family members and asserted he should be held accountable only if there are lapses on part of his department.
"While my younger son was returning from office yesterday from Andheri, there was a 'naka bandi' (vehicle checking) on the way.
"Just before my son passed by from there, there were four people who were caught for drunken driving. So the police first suspected that my son was part in that group as well," Raote told reporters here.
The Sena leader claimed he has never seen his son consume liquor or beverages with alcohol content.
"When the police apprehended him (son) and asked for his driving licence, he gave it to them. Since his licence had his full name (including father's) in it, the police asked him who is Diwakar Raote. My son told them that was none of their business and that is how the quarrel started," he said.
Raote said he reprimanded his son for quarrelling with the police and asked the latter to collect a fine from him under relevant Section of the Motor Vehicles Act.
"My son has his own life and his own family. He does not even stay with me at my official residence so my name should not be dragged in any controversy. The media has the right to point out at any mistake if it is related to my portfolio. I will be happy to correct them," he said.
The matter involving Raote's son was later resolved and he was allowed to go. Also, no case was filed in the Mahim Police Station or with the traffic department.
Recently, Raote had reprimanded two women constables for driving a two-wheeler without wearing helmets.
