A Thane-based social activist was allegedly assaulted in a road rage incident near the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) office on Thursday night by a man who claimed to be from the Merchant Navy and was later found to be driving under the influence.

The Naupada police initially refused to register an FIR, opting instead to file a non-cognisable complaint and only after persistent efforts by the victim and his associates did they register one. Police officials later confirmed to mid-day that the accused was intoxicated at the time of the incident and was fined Rs 10,000 for drunk driving.

The victim is identified as Nishant Bangera, 33, and his wife, Amritha Mohan, 32, residents of Thane. On Thursday night, Nishant picked up Amritha from Thane railway station and they were going back home.