Has suspended Cong MLA Mamkootathil been accused of sexual exploitation?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rahul Mamkootathil faces serious allegations of sexual exploitation.
- The complaint has been forwarded to the Crime Branch for further investigation.
- Political implications are significant with local elections approaching.
- Despite suspension, Mamkootathil retains his MLA status.
- The situation is evolving rapidly, with potential legal ramifications.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 27 (NationPress) The suspended Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil recently attempted to regain his political influence by actively engaging in local body election campaigns. However, he faced a significant blow on Thursday when a woman lodged a formal complaint of sexual exploitation directly with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
In response to this unfolding situation, Mamkootathil expressed on his social media platform, "As far as I’m aware, I have committed no offense; I will address this matter legally."
He further stated, "The truth will always prevail." The Chief Minister has forwarded the complaint to the Crime Branch, which is anticipated to file an FIR, a development that may lead to the legislator's arrest.
Mamkootathil was suspended from his party in August due to multiple harassment allegations. He also resigned from the position of president of the Kerala Youth Congress.
Until now, his supporters claimed that while media reports existed, no formal complaints had been made.
The controversy escalated earlier this week with the emergence of fresh audio recordings and WhatsApp messages allegedly depicting Mamkootathil coercing a young woman regarding pregnancy and abortion. These materials have gained traction on various social media platforms, igniting a renewed discussion both politically and publicly.
The timing of these allegations, surfacing just weeks before the local body elections on December 11, has raised eyebrows across the political landscape. Despite his suspension, Mamkootathil continues to hold his MLA status and is legally permitted to campaign.
Recently, he has been notably active in Palakkad, engaging in house visits, street campaigns, and mobilizing at the ward level.
He garnered attention after successfully arguing against the rejection of a UDF candidate's nomination before election officials, which momentarily improved his standing among party supporters.
Supporters of Mamkootathil allege that both the CPI(M) and BJP attempted to limit his campaign efforts but retreated under public pressure.
With an FIR on the horizon, political analysts speculate that this controversy might escalate into a significant legal and electoral confrontation.
Meanwhile, former state BJP president K. Surendran stated that the time has come for Mamkootathil to resign as a legislator.
Mamkootathil had previously won his first election in November last year, securing the Palakkad Assembly bye-election by a considerable margin.