BJP MLA’s Son Booked, SUV Seized After Misconduct with SDM in Nainital

DEHRADUN: A display of alleged VIP entitlement on the bustling Mall Road of Nainital turned costly for the son of a BJP MLA, after the misconduct and his vehicle was seized by police on Thursday.Taking serious note of both the traffic violations and the misconduct with a public official, Nainital Police seized the vehicle on the spot.Considering the seriousness of the matter, the police issued a challan under the Motor Vehicles Act and seized the vehicle on the spot. Afterward, the MLA’s son continued to follow the legal process until evening to secure the vehicle’s release. This action by the administration is being seen as a strong message against VIP culture in Nainital.The incident unfolded amid heavy tourist traffic that had led to a long congestion stretch on the Mall Road. A white Toyota Fortuner, blaring a loud hooter(siren), was seen aggressively pushing through the jam. The vehicle was directly behind Sub-Divisional Magistrate Nawazish Khaliq, who initially gave way, assuming the presence of an emergency or a high-ranking official.However, when the siren continued even after being allowed passage, the SDM intervened and stopped the vehicle. What followed was a heated confrontation. The young occupant identified himself as the son of BJP MLA Rajendra Patel from the Jahanabad constituency and allegedly began arguing with the officer, invoking political influence and behaving in an unruly manner.Police informed, as the situation escalated in the middle of the road, police personnel quickly arrived at the scene. Upon inspection, authorities uncovered multiple violations. The Fortuner, bearing a MLA sticker, was registered under a different individual, Surendra Kumar Singh. More critically, the driver failed to produce a valid driving license, insurance papers, or pollution certificate.