Multiple Women Accuse Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil of Sexual Misconduct and Abuse of Power

Thiruvananthapuram: Another woman has come forward with grave allegations against Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, claiming that he sexually assaulted her under the pretence of a marriage proposal. She told a regional local channel, Reporter TV, that Rahul invited her to a private room to have a conversation and then forced her into a sex. When she confronted him about marriage, he reportedly declined, citing his busy schedule and lack of time for such commitments.

According to the women,they developed their relationship in 2023 through Instagram, she said that later they started using Telegram for regular communications where Rahul allegedly sent disappearing messages. Reportedly initially he expressed interest in marriage, which she declined. Subsequently, he invited her to meet under the pretext of a discussion, accompanied by his friend Fenny Nainan. During this meeting, he allegedly forced himself on her. Later, he dismissed any intention of marriage, stating he had no time for such commitments.

The woman later discovered that other women had similar experiences with Rahul. After actress Rini Ann George's public revelation, she realised that many had faced similar misconduct. She also learned that a senior had been similarly abused. Despite the allegations, Rahul reportedly continues to hold power, with his associates allegedly shielding him. The woman refrained from legal action due to concerns for her family's safety and fear of retaliation.

Transgender activist Avanthika has also accused Rahul Mamkootathil of sexual misconduct. She claims that after meeting him around the time of the Thrikkakara by-election, their conversations became increasingly inappropriate. She alleges that Rahul sent her messages expressing a desire to rape her and suggested meeting in cities like Bengaluru or Hyderabad. These messages were reportedly sent via Telegram's vanish mode, leaving no trace. Avanthika stated that she initially hesitated to speak out but was encouraged after other women came forward. However, she faces online harassment and fears for her safety. She has expressed a willingness to pursue legal action, despite the lack of evidence.

In the face of mounting allegations, Rahul Mamkootathil resigned from his position as the state president of the Kerala Youth Congress. He stated that his resignation was a personal decision to prevent the party from being distracted by the controversy and to allow them to focus on upcoming elections. He denied all allegations, asserting that he had not committed any illegal acts and that no formal complaints had been filed against him.

Following his resignation, political leaders have called for further action. Communist Party of India (Marxist) state secretary M.V. Govindan said that the Congress party bears responsibility for addressing the serious and substantiated allegations. Former Health Minister K.K. Shailaja criticized the Congress leadership for failing to act on previous complaints and alleged that Rahul's associates engaged in coordinated online harassment of women. She urged immediate legal action and accountability from the Congress party.