In a significant development, Kerala police on Sunday arrested Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil following a fresh complaint of rape and criminal intimidation lodged by a woman from Thiruvalla. The legislator, who had already faced allegations in two separate cases, was taken into custody early in the morning and later remanded to 14 days’ judicial custody by a magistrate in Pathanamthitta.

Background of the MLA and Previous Cases

Mamkootathil, a former Congress MLA who was expelled from the party prior to the new allegations, has been embroiled in multiple criminal cases. The earlier complaints against him include charges of rape, criminal intimidation, coerced abortion, verbal threats, and physical assault. While the Kerala High Court had granted him interim protection from arrest in those cases, the fresh complaint prompted immediate police action.

According to officials, the MLA has been booked under Section 376 (rape) and Section 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in this latest case.

Allegations in the New Case

The fresh complaint, filed via email by the woman, alleges that Mamkootathil first befriended her through social media in 2024 and developed a personal relationship, during which he expressed interest in marriage. In April 2024, the woman claimed, the legislator invited her to a hotel room under the pretext of discussing marriage. It was there that he allegedly raped her and caused physical injuries.

The woman further alleged that after she became pregnant, Mamkootathil withdrew his marriage proposal and coerced her into purchasing expensive items such as watches and footwear, providing evidence to the police in the form of purchase bills. The complaint emphasizes both physical and psychological coercion, painting a pattern of manipulative and exploitative behavior by the MLA.

Legal and Political Reactions

Mamkootathil’s lawyer, Sasthamangalam Ajith Kumar, condemned the arrest, calling it “unnecessary” and arguing that as a sitting MLA, he could have been asked to appear before the police rather than being taken into custody. “An arrest or remand is not the end of the road in the case,” Kumar added, indicating that the defense intends to challenge the custody decision in court.

Meanwhile, the Congress party has distanced itself from Mamkootathil, highlighting that he was expelled prior to the new case coming to light. Senior Congress leader K. Muraleedharan stated, “After his expulsion, he is no longer our responsibility, and the party is not answerable for anything.”

On the legislative front, Kerala Assembly Speaker A.N. Shamseer indicated that he would seek legal advice regarding Mamkootathil’s disqualification from the assembly. “Matters regarding him would be discussed by the ethics and privileges committee of the assembly,” Shamseer told reporters, signaling potential action on his legislative membership depending on the outcome of investigations and legal proceedings.

Broader Implications

The arrest has significant political and legal ramifications. As an expelled legislator, Mamkootathil now faces multiple legal battles without the backing of a political party. The fresh charges also raise questions about the Assembly’s disciplinary mechanisms for sitting members accused of criminal conduct.

The case has drawn attention to the intersection of social media relationships and criminal exploitation, highlighting how public figures may misuse their influence to manipulate and intimidate individuals. Police investigations are ongoing, and authorities are expected to examine financial records, communications, and corroborating evidence to substantiate the allegations.

Conclusion

Rahul Mamkootathil’s arrest marks the latest chapter in a series of legal controversies surrounding the expelled Palakkad MLA. While he had interim protection from previous cases, the fresh allegations of sexual assault and criminal intimidation have led to immediate custody and potential legislative scrutiny. The case underscores the growing scrutiny on public figures in positions of power and the mechanisms through which the law holds elected officials accountable for alleged criminal behavior.

Authorities have indicated that the investigation is continuing, and further developments, including possible charges under additional sections of law, may follow as the case unfolds in court.

---