"Mamkoottil a Habitual Offender," Prosecution Seeks Cancellation of Anticipatory Bail in High Court

Kochi: The Kerala government has filed a petition in the High Court challenging the anticipatory bail granted to Congress MLA Rahul Mamkoottil in the second sexual assault case. The prosecution has argued that Mamkoottil should be denied anticipatory bail, citing his status as a habitual offender.

The prosecution noted that, while evaluating the bail petition, the Principal Sessions Court in Thiruvananthapuram acknowledged that Mamkoottil had committed a serious crime. However, it pointed out that the reason for granting anticipatory bail to the accused was not mentioned in the court's order.

The prosecution argued that Mamkoottil, being a person of significant influence, could potentially destroy evidence or tamper with witnesses if granted bail. Additionally, the prosecution highlighted that another similar case against Mamkoottil was still pending, making his custody necessary for further investigation.

On Wednesday, the Principal Sessions Court had granted Mamkoottil anticipatory bail in connection with a sexual assault case involving a Malayali woman from Bengaluru. The victim testified that Mamkoottil subjected her to severe sexual abuse and inflicted injuries all over her body.

According to the victim’s statement, she was threatened by Mamkoottil, which led to a delay in filing the complaint. She further stated that she found the courage to file the complaint only after an investigation was initiated in another similar case involving Mamkoottil. The court granted Mamkoottil anticipatory bail under several strict conditions.

Among the conditions, Mamkoottil is required to appear before the investigating officer on specified days and whenever requested. He is also prohibited from contacting the victim or any witnesses, either directly or indirectly. Furthermore, the court ordered that he refrain from attempting to destroy evidence or influence witnesses. Additionally, he has been asked to deposit a bond of 50,000 rupees.

The High Court will review Mamkoottil’s anticipatory bail petition in the first registered sexual assault case on the 15th of this month.