Is Kerala's Rahul Mamkootathil Facing Harassment Allegations?
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Synopsis
As allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation against Kerala MLA Rahul Mamkootathil unfold, the Crime Branch has filed a FIR. Will this situation impact the Congress party's stance as the Assembly session approaches? Stay tuned for the latest developments.
Key Takeaways
- FIR filed against Rahul Mamkootathil for harassment.
- Allegations include stalking and intimidation.
- Police initiated action based on multiple complaints.
- Congress party suspends Mamkootathil amid controversy.
- Case could impact political dynamics in Kerala.
Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 4 (NationPress) As Kerala approaches a new Assembly session in under two weeks, a FIR has been lodged by the Crime Branch Police against former Youth Congress state president and Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil regarding serious allegations of sexual harassment, stalking, and intimidation of women.
The FIR was presented to the Thiruvananthapuram Judicial First Class Magistrate Court.
As per the FIR, Rahul is accused of harassing women via social media, sending threatening communications, and exerting pressure on one woman to terminate her pregnancy. He faces charges under BNS Section 78(2), Section 351 of the Police Act, and Section 120.
The case arose from complaints directed to the State Police Chief by five individuals, none of whom are directly related to the alleged victims.
While the women involved have yet to file formal complaints, the Crime Branch has stated that their testimonies will be taken if sufficient evidence is provided. The agency has already recorded the statement of Advocate Shino, one of the complainants, and intends to interview journalists who reported on the controversy on Facebook.
Investigators have traced one alleged abortion incident to a hospital in Bengaluru, where information has already been gathered.
The Crime Branch is set to take the statement of the woman who reportedly underwent the procedure.
There are indications that another woman may have also had an abortion, potentially facilitated by a relative of the first.
These claims remain under investigation.
The FIR highlights that the police initiated the case suo motu, citing ongoing harassment of women by Rahul on digital platforms.
It also documents allegations that he threatened women via phone and sent coercive messages regarding abortion.
With the case now in court, the Crime Branch asserts that subsequent actions will rely on direct testimonies and corroborative evidence from the women involved.
With Mamkootathil currently suspended from the Congress party, there is heightened scrutiny on how the party will navigate this issue, especially amidst rising concerns that the state government may be politically motivated in its actions against him.
This situation unfolds as the Congress-led opposition prepares to confront the Vijayan government over claims of mismanagement.
Point of View
This developing story highlights significant issues surrounding women's safety and political accountability. The allegations against Mamkootathil raise critical questions about how political figures are held responsible for their actions and the broader implications for party dynamics in Kerala.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the charges against Rahul Mamkootathil?
Rahul Mamkootathil faces multiple allegations including sexual harassment, stalking, and intimidation of women, as detailed in the FIR filed by the Crime Branch Police.
Who filed the FIR against Rahul Mamkootathil?
The FIR was filed by the Crime Branch Police based on complaints received by the State Police Chief.
What actions will the Crime Branch take next?
The Crime Branch plans to record statements from the women involved and has already taken a deposition from one complainant, with further investigations underway.
How has the Congress party responded to these allegations?
Rahul Mamkootathil has been suspended from the Congress party, and the party's response to the situation is being closely monitored as the Assembly session approaches.
What is the significance of this case in the political landscape of Kerala?
This case could have far-reaching implications for the Congress party and its ability to challenge the ruling government, particularly in light of the ongoing allegations of mismanagement.
