Kerala courts have tightened the screws on Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, placing him under 14-day judicial custody amid a burgeoning sexual assault investigation. The high-profile legislator from Nemom was hauled into custody after a shocking complaint from a party woman worker detailed months of alleged abuse.
Details emerging from the FIR paint a disturbing picture: unwanted physical contact during official party functions, lewd messages, and intimidation tactics to silence the victim. Ernakulam police, acting on the complaint filed ten days ago, conducted raids at the MLA’s residences and offices, uncovering potential evidence that bolstered the case for remand.
During today’s hearing at the Aluva court, Mamkootathil’s lawyers mounted a vigorous defense, portraying the accusations as a conspiracy hatched by political rivals ahead of local elections. However, the prosecution countered with preliminary findings, including call records and CCTV footage from event venues, leading Judge S. Unnikrishnan to order custody until further notice.
The fallout is rippling across Kerala’s political corridors. Congress high command has distanced itself, appointing a disciplinary committee, while BJP and Left fronts amplify calls for his immediate expulsion. Local residents in Nemom are divided—some decry the MLA’s past contributions to development projects, others demand zero tolerance for such behavior.
With the National Commission for Women monitoring developments and more complainants possibly coming forward, this scandal could redefine power dynamics in Kerala assembly. As forensic teams delve deeper, the focus remains on ensuring victim protection and upholding legal standards in a case that tests the resilience of democratic institutions.
