Thiruvananthapuram: The LDF is moving to disqualify Rahul Mamkootathil, who is facing rape cases, from his position as MLA. A decision will be taken based on legal advice.

Such complaints are placed before the Legislative Assembly Ethics Committee. Although the committee does not have the power to disqualify a member, it can submit a recommendation to the Speaker. Any such recommendation must be made after giving the accused an opportunity to present an explanation.

There are concerns over whether the proceedings can be completed as the Assembly’s term is nearing its end. Even if the process cannot be completed, some leaders believe that at the very least the steps can be initiated.

Congress leadership has indicated that it will not take a stand to protect Rahul if such a move is initiated. Leaders, including V D Satheesan and Ramesh Chennithala, had from the beginning maintained that action should be taken against him. The party points out that it has no obligation to protect someone who is no longer associated with it.

Meanwhile, the Opposition is also likely to demand similar action against M Mukesh from the ruling front, citing the sexual assault complaint pending against him.

Questions are also being raised as to whether it is appropriate for the Assembly to intervene in a criminal case involving two individuals. Since it is for the court to determine whether the accused is guilty, doubts have been raised over whether the Assembly should move towards disqualification before a judicial verdict is delivered.

The only comparable instance was when MPs were expelled in the cash-for-query case. However, that incident was directly related to parliamentary conduct. Within the ruling front too, there is unease over whether a new precedent should be set in this regard.

Rahul’s refusal to sign arrest memo

In a related development, Rahul reportedly refused to sign the arrest memo despite repeated requests. He was brought to the Pathanamthitta AR Camp for questioning at around 7.30 am on Sunday, after which his arrest was formally recorded. However, as he declined to sign, a gazetted officer was called in to certify the process. The police also obtained a written statement from a relative who visited Rahul, confirming that the family had been informed about his arrest.