Is Suspended Cong MLA Mamkootathil Evading Law After Sexual Assault Allegations?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Serious allegations against a suspended MLA can have significant legal consequences.
- The victim's statement has prompted intensified police efforts.
- Legal proceedings are underway, with the possibility of anticipatory bail.
- The case highlights issues of sexual exploitation and justice.
- Political implications are emerging as the case develops.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 28 (NationPress) The sexual assault allegations against suspended Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil have escalated dramatically, revealing alarming details from the victim's confidential statement to law enforcement.
The complainant, a young woman, has accused Mamkootathil of not only sexually exploiting her under the pretense of marriage but also coercing her into terminating her pregnancy by providing abortion pills through an intermediary.
She asserts that after consuming the pills, prompted by threats made during a video call from Mamkootathil, she experienced severe health issues.
The woman sought medical assistance from a gynaecologist at a government facility, which has now been confirmed by police.
In light of her statement, authorities have ramped up efforts to locate Mamkootathil, who is currently believed to be evading capture following the registration of an FIR at the Valiyamala Police Station.
Investigators suspect he may have fled Kerala.
His mobile device, which was off since the complaint, was activated this morning amidst ongoing search operations in Palakkad and Pathanamthitta.
Police are also examining the role of a businessman from Adoor, a close associate of Mamkootathil, who allegedly supplied the abortion pills to the victim.
The investigation is being directly overseen by the Thiruvananthapuram City Police Commissioner.
The case, initially filed as a zero FIR at Valiyamala, has now been reassigned to Nemom Police Station since the alleged crimes took place within its jurisdiction.
The allegations include sexual exploitation under false promises of marriage and forced abortion.
Meanwhile, Mamkootathil is reportedly taking legal measures to obtain anticipatory bail.
He has been in talks with a lawyer in Kochi and is considering filing for bail at either the Thiruvananthapuram District Sessions Court or the Kerala High Court.
Authorities are expected to approach the Neyyattinkara Court on Friday to document the complainant's confidential statement in accordance with Section 164 of the CrPC.
If granted, the statement will be recorded on the same day, contributing further to a case that is swiftly becoming politically and legally significant in the region.
Top leaders of the Congress party stated on Friday that Mamkootathil was suspended in August when similar allegations first emerged. "Now let the law take its course," remarked CWC member and veteran legislator Ramesh Chennithala.
Kerala’s first female IPS officer, R. Sreelekha, who has retired as Director General of Police and is now a prominent figure in the State BJP and candidate for the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, expressed on her social media, "I stand with the survivor and the truth... The only regret is that she did not file the complaint sooner. Why did she approach the Chief Minister directly? Was it to give the accused a chance to evade justice? I am a mother and a former police officer, and I believe that there should never be a delay in protecting victims."