Kerala High Court stepped in decisively today, putting a hold on police moves to arrest Thrissur MLA Rahul Mamkootathil amid a swirling rape scandal that has gripped the state. The 42-year-old Congress leader faces accusations from a party activist who alleges he assaulted her at a private party function.
Details emerged from the survivor’s police statement, painting a harrowing picture of betrayal. The incident allegedly occurred after a late-night Congress meeting where alcohol was served, leading to the assault in a nearby hotel room. She claims repeated advances were rebuffed before turning violent, with threats to derail her political career if she spoke out.
Police swung into action post-FIR, summoning the MLA for questioning multiple times. However, Mamkootathil sought pre-arrest bail, contending the complaint was a smear campaign orchestrated by rivals within and outside the party. His petition cited CCTV footage and witness accounts that allegedly contradict the timeline provided by the complainant.
During the hearing, the single-judge bench scrutinized the police report and found insufficient grounds for immediate detention. The court directed the investigating officer to file a status report within two weeks and prohibited the MLA from leaving the state without permission. This interim relief has sparked debates on balancing individual rights with victim protection.
Politically, the saga has become a flashpoint. KPCC chief K Sudhakaran rallied behind Mamkootathil, labeling it a ‘vendetta case,’ while opposition leaders called for his suspension from party duties. Activists from #MeToo movements in Kerala renewed calls for stringent laws against influential perpetrators.
With forensic evidence pending and witness statements trickling in, the case tests Kerala’s judicial and political resilience. The High Court’s measured approach aims to ensure a fair probe, but public outrage demands swift accountability. As Kerala watches closely, this could redefine how assault cases involving lawmakers are handled.