Is Kerala's Cong MLA Rahul Mamkootathil Seeking Anticipatory Bail Amid Rape Case Allegations?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rahul Mamkootathil files for anticipatory bail in a rape case.
- The Kerala Police is forming a SIT for investigation.
- Allegations are claimed to be politically motivated.
- Immediate political repercussions are expected.
- Legal proceedings are anticipated to unfold swiftly.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 28 (NationPress) Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil has filed a petition in the Thiruvananthapuram District Court requesting anticipatory bail in connection with the rape case lodged against him. This development comes as the Kerala Police has initiated the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve into these serious allegations.
In his application, the Congress leader emphasized that he has a longstanding friendship with the complainant and firmly rejects all accusations of rape and coercion for an abortion.
He asserts that the claims are fabricated, politically driven, and intended to tarnish his reputation.
Furthermore, the petition states that he is ready to fully cooperate with the investigation, a position he claims to have held since the beginning.
The MLA's troubles began in August, leading to his removal as president of the Youth Congress and subsequent suspension from the party.
In the meantime, the police have decided to escalate the investigation by forming a high-level SIT, headed by Thiruvananthapuram City Police Commissioner Thomson Jose.
The team will comprise a Deputy Commissioner of Police and an Assistant Commissioner. The final list of officials is yet to be disclosed; an order was anticipated from the Additional Director General of Police, responsible for law and order, by Friday evening.
The FIR was initially registered under the jurisdiction of Thiruvananthapuram Rural but has since been moved to Nemom Police Station, where the alleged incident occurred, falling under the City Police Commissioner's jurisdiction.
Officers from Nemom have taken the complainant’s confidential statement.
This case has garnered political attention due to Rahul's status as an elected official. His petition claims that the “unusually swift” actions by the police reflect political influence and an effort to hasten legal proceedings.
As the legal and political ramifications escalate, all eyes will be on the court’s decision regarding the anticipatory bail request and the subsequent steps taken by the SIT.
Earlier today, the police issued a lookout notice for Rahul Mamkootathil.