KPCC chief Sunny Joseph backs Rahul Mamkootathil, rejects calls for resignation

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president Adv. Sunny Joseph, on Saturday, backed Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil and dismissed call for his resignation.

“The MLA post is given by the people. There is no such convention that he should step down. Even in cases involving far more serious charges, including rape, legislators continue to remain in the Assembly. None of them resigned. Then why should Rahul?” Joseph asked.

He added that Congress leadership enjoys goodwill among the public because of its organisational strength.

“The allegations have created some discomfort in Congress. However, the opposition parties have no moral and legal right to raise the issue to oppose us,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, despite protests by the CPM and BJP, Congress A-group and close aides of the MLA are planning to bring Rahul to Palakkad to take part in the upcoming Onam celebrations. Party leaders believe prolonged absence from his constituency could harm electoral prospects. However, a section of Congress workers has expressed displeasure over the move.

Rahul has been staying at his residence in Adoor since the allegations surfaced.