Will Kerala HC Allow MLA Rahul Mamkootathil to Avoid Arrest Until January 7?
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Synopsis
The Kerala High Court has provided temporary relief to MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, ordering that he cannot be arrested until January 7. This decision comes amid serious sexual assault allegations and has generated significant political and public discourse.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala High Court grants temporary relief to Mamkootathil.
- Next court hearing on January 7.
- Multiple allegations leading to legal and political challenges.
- Congress party distances itself from the MLA.
- Public protests highlight the controversy surrounding the case.
Kochi, Dec 18 (NationPress) In a surprising turn of events, Rahul Mamkootathil, a first-time MLA from the Congress party who has recently been ousted, has been granted temporary relief by the Kerala High Court. The court has instructed that he cannot be arrested until January 7, when it will thoroughly review the allegations of sexual assault against him.
This ruling extends the previous interim protection provided to the legislator from Palakkad, who has been under increasing legal and political scrutiny due to two separate complaints.
Initially, the High Court had granted him protection from arrest on December 6, right after Mamkootathil went underground in response to the legal actions.
On Thursday, the court's decision to extend his interim relief offers him some respite as it prepares to delve deeper into the case early next year.
Additionally, a lower court in Thiruvananthapuram recently ordered that he should not be arrested in a separate, yet similar case until further directives are issued.
These legal developments transpired just a day after Mamkootathil reemerged following a 15-day absence to cast his vote in the local body elections on December 11, quelling speculation about his public reappearance.
He arrived at St. Sebastian’s School in Kunnathurmedu, Palakkad, around 4:45 p.m., accompanied by a few supporters, and exercised his voting rights at Booth No. 2 in Ward 24.
In brief comments to reporters, he stated that the matter is now in the hands of the courts and refrained from making further statements. His attendance was met with protests from CPI-M members, who chanted slogans and displayed banners against him as he departed the polling station.
His troubles began on November 27, when the first sexual assault complaint was lodged by a young woman.
As public scrutiny grew, the Congress party first suspended him and later expelled him, distancing itself from the beleaguered legislator after a second allegation came to light.
Last Wednesday, the Thiruvananthapuram Principal Sessions Court granted him anticipatory bail in this second case, but with strict conditions, including a mandatory weekly appearance before the investigating officer.
The court also ordered that he must be released on bail immediately if he is arrested in connection with that case.
However, the prosecution has since approached the High Court to contest the anticipatory bail ruling.
Police have added charges such as stalking, unlawful restraint, and criminal trespass, asserting that Mamkootathil can only be arrested in the first case if the High Court lifts its stay.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the balance between legal proceedings and public interest in cases involving political figures. Rahul Mamkootathil’s circumstances illustrate the complex interplay of law and politics, raising questions about accountability and justice.
NationPress
20/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current legal status of Rahul Mamkootathil?
Rahul Mamkootathil has received temporary relief from arrest until January 7, as directed by the Kerala High Court, while facing serious allegations of sexual assault.
Why was Mamkootathil expelled from the Congress party?
Mamkootathil was expelled from the Congress party following mounting allegations, including two separate sexual assault complaints, which led the party to distance itself from him.
What charges are against Mamkootathil?
Mamkootathil faces serious charges including sexual assault, stalking, unlawful restraint, and criminal trespass.
When is the next court date for Mamkootathil?
The next court date for examining Mamkootathil's case is set for January 7.
What happened during the local body elections?
Mamkootathil reemerged to vote in the local body elections after a 15-day absence, which had generated considerable public speculation.
