Where is suspended Cong MLA Mamkootathil amid sexual assault allegations?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Investigation intensifies as witness statements are recorded.
- MLA's whereabouts remain undisclosed, with reports suggesting he is in Palakkad.
- Contradictions in the complainant's testimony challenge Mamkootathil's defense.
- Legal proceedings are ongoing, with significant implications for the MLA.
- Public interest remains high regarding the allegations and political ramifications.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 29 (NationPress) The sexual assault case involving suspended Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil has reached a significant stage, with authorities initiating the process of gathering witness testimonies while the legislator is believed to be hiding in an undisclosed location.
Reports suggest that he is currently in Palakkad, following legal counsel to remain within the jurisdiction in anticipation of his bail hearing.
Contrary to earlier rumors of his departure from the state, sources confirm that Mamkootathil is still located in Palakkad.
His official vehicle is parked at his residence, while it is assumed that he has relocated to a private spot using a friend's vehicle.
His personal assistant and driver are also reportedly present in Palakkad.
The investigation has ramped up, with the team starting to document witness statements from Saturday.
The first statement to be recorded will be from the doctor who treated the complainant after she allegedly took abortion medication, followed by her friends' testimonies.
The complainant's confidential statement and medical examination were completed on Thursday.
In the meantime, her disclosures to the investigative officers have revealed critical contradictions to the assertions made in Mamkootathil's anticipatory bail plea.
The woman clarified that her previous marriage, which occurred in August 2024 at a temple but was never legally formalized, lasted only a month, with the couple cohabiting for merely four days.
She also indicated that she met Mamkootathil five months post-separation, thereby refuting his claims that she was still in a marital relationship when their association commenced—a crucial element of the MLA's defense.
In his bail plea filed at the Thiruvananthapuram District Court, Mamkootathil asserts that the relationship was consensual, denying any allegations of rape or coercion regarding the abortion.
He alleges that the accusations are “fabricated and politically motivated,” highlighting what he perceives as unusually rapid police action.
The District Sessions Court is set to hear his anticipatory bail plea on Wednesday.
The MLA’s troubles began in August, leading to his removal from the position of Youth Congress president and subsequent suspension from the party.
Meanwhile, law enforcement has opted to intensify the investigation by establishing a high-level Special Investigation Team under Thiruvananthapuram City Police Commissioner Thomson Jose.