Thiruvananthapuram: The Congress in Kerala is witnessing growing internal tensions as the party grapples with sexual assault allegations against expelled MLA Rahul Mamkootathil. The controversy intensified after a young woman filed a second complaint against the former legislator, prompting sharply contrasting reactions from senior leaders within the party.

KPCC president Sunny Joseph appeared to question the intent behind the second complaint, suggesting that it was “well planned” and “well drafted,” possibly indicating involvement of a “legal brain.” Joseph also expressed concern over the timing of the complaint’s release, pointing out that it reached the media simultaneously with his office. Speaking to reporters in Kannur, he said, “I said it was a well-planned, well-drafted petition. The complaint reached the media at the same time it reached me. What was the intention behind that?”

Joseph’s comments, while not questioning the veracity of the allegations, suggested unease within the state Congress regarding the handling of the complaint and its political implications. The remark sparked debate over whether the timing and presentation of the complaint were part of a coordinated effort to draw public attention.

Contrasting sharply with Joseph, Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, V D Satheesan, expressed full support for the complainant. Satheesan emphasized that there is nothing improper about submitting a well-prepared petition and called for a thorough police investigation. Speaking to reporters in North Paravoor, near Kochi, he said, “What is wrong with that? A well-drafted complaint is not an offence. Let the police investigate the complaint and find the truth. The police should also investigate why there was a delay in filing the complaint and explain it before the court. In any case, a delay does not make an offence cease to be an offence.”

The second complaint comes after the first case against Mamkootathil was registered, in which he was granted interim protection from arrest by the Kerala High Court. Following the filing of the new complaint, the police registered a second case against the former MLA. Mamkootathil has secured anticipatory bail from a sessions court in Thiruvananthapuram in the second case, similar to the protections he received in the first.

The contrasting responses from Joseph and Satheesan underscore the delicate position the Kerala Congress finds itself in as it navigates allegations against one of its former legislators. While Joseph’s remarks hint at concerns over political optics and legal maneuvering, Satheesan’s stance reinforces a commitment to supporting victims and ensuring that allegations are thoroughly investigated.

Observers note that the split within the party reflects broader challenges faced by political organizations in balancing internal cohesion with accountability, especially in high-profile cases involving sexual assault allegations. The timing of complaints, media coverage, and public perception can significantly influence political narratives, as demonstrated in the ongoing debate over the handling of the Mamkootathil case.

The state police are investigating both complaints against the expelled MLA, while the Congress leadership has been under pressure to demonstrate transparency and sensitivity toward the complainant. The second complaint has reignited discussions on the party’s approach to gender-based allegations and the mechanisms in place for internal handling of such sensitive matters.

As the legal proceedings continue, the Kerala Congress faces the dual challenge of maintaining party unity while ensuring that due process is observed and victims’ rights are protected. The differing positions of Joseph and Satheesan are likely to shape both internal deliberations and public discourse on the case, reflecting the broader tensions between political strategy and moral responsibility in handling allegations of sexual assault against prominent figures.

The situation remains dynamic, with legal outcomes, party responses, and media coverage expected to influence the trajectory of the case and its impact on the Congress in Kerala. Both the courts and the police investigation will play a critical role in determining accountability, while the party’s handling of the matter will be closely scrutinized by members, political opponents, and the public alike.