Pathanamthitta: MLA Rahul Mamkootathil has been denied bail in the third rape case registered against him. The Thiruvalla Judicial First Class Magistrate Court rejected his bail application, meaning the legislator will continue in remand. With the Magistrate Court dismissing the plea, the defence is expected to approach the Sessions Court for bail later today.

The latest rape complaint against Mamkootathil was filed by a Thiruvalla native currently living abroad.

Rahul was arrested in the third rape case in the early hours of January 11. Police took the MLA into custody discreetly from a hotel in Palakkad and later recorded his arrest in Pathanamthitta. Evidence collection was subsequently carried out at the hotel where the woman was allegedly assaulted.

Meanwhile, Mamkootathil argued in his bail application that the rape case was fabricated. According to him, the relationship with the woman was consensual, and therefore the charge of rape did not stand. He also contended that the police did not follow proper procedures during the arrest.