Ramdas Athawale, Union minister of state for social justice and empowerment, was reportedly assaulted at a public function in the Ambernath suburbs of Mumbai.
The security breach involving a central minister has rattled the Maharashtra government.
On Saturday evening, a youth identified as Pravin Gosavi, attempted to slap Athawale, who is the president of RPI.
The incident occurred at Ambernath in Thane district, nearly 60 km from downtown Mumbai. Athawale’s supporters came close 
and prevented any physical harm to the minister.
Gosavi, who is an activist belonging to Athawale faction of RPI, was thrashed by party men, following which he had been admitted to a hospital.
 Athawale, a Rajya Sabha member, plans to meet Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and discuss the incident and the security breach.
“I appeal all to keep calm...,” Athawale said.
According to Athawale, police did not give adequate protection to him which enabled the assailant to come close.
“My popularity is growing and that could be one of the reason the person charged towards me,” he said. “I will meet the chief minister and request for an investigation. I have no enmity towards anyone,” he added.
RPI (Athawale) activists also forced a bandh in parts of Ambernath on Sunday.
While the motive behind the attack is not yet know, heavy security has been deployed in Ambernath and neighbouring areas.