Kochi: Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, who remains absconding, has filed a petition in the Kerala High Court seeking anticipatory bail in the rape case registered against him.

The High Court is expected to consider the petition later this day or on Saturday. This development follows the rejection of his bail application by the Thiruvananthapuram Principal Sessions Court, which emphasised the need for custodial interrogation to aid the ongoing investigation.

Despite pressure from law enforcement and the Congress party—which has since expelled him from its primary membership—Mamkootathil has not indicated any willingness to surrender.

Kerala Police has intensified efforts to locate him, including monitoring tower locations and questioning individuals suspected of assisting him. According to officials, he has not cooperated at any stage of the investigation, and authorities warn that his prolonged absence could lead to additional legal consequences, including obstruction of justice charges.

The case has sparked political controversy, with the ruling LDF criticising the Congress for not disciplining its leaders promptly, while the Opposition alleges selective leaks to sway public opinion.

Mamkootathil currently represents the Palakkad constituency in the Kerala Legislative Assembly. Multiple women have accused him of rape and sexual misconduct, making the outcome of the High Court hearing a critical moment both legally and politically.

IANS