Thiruvananthapuram: Police have registered a case against MLA Rahul Mamkootathil following a woman’s complaint alleging sexual assault. The charges include rape on the pretext of marriage and forced abortion. The FIR was lodged at the Nedumangad Valiyimala police station under non-bailable sections. The action follows a complaint the woman submitted directly to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan recently. A team led by Rural SP K. S. Sudarsan subsequently recorded her statement.

The complainant, accompanied by another woman, arrived at the Chief Minister’s office around 4.30 pm on Thursday to explain the matter and submitted a three-page written complaint. Digital evidence, including WhatsApp messages and audio recordings, was also handed over. After the Chief Minister forwarded the complaint to ADGP H. Venkatesh, officials held a meeting at police headquarters to decide the next steps. The complaint is expected to have political ramifications, particularly with local body elections approaching.

Although allegations against Rahul Mamkootathil first surfaced in August, the complainant had until now not appeared in person. Nevertheless, the Crime Branch began an inquiry based on petitions submitted by third parties to the State Police Chief. Investigators identified the woman heard in the audio recordings and requested a written complaint, but she had previously declined to file one. Rahul Mamkootathil has neither confirmed nor denied that the voice in the recording is his.

In the wake of the complaint, Rahul has closed his MLA office in Palakkad and has kept a low profile. His phone has also remained switched off. With the FIR now registered and police initiating steps towards his arrest, Rahul is seeking anticipatory bail.

Rahul Seeks Legal Aid for Anticipatory Bail

Following the woman’s complaint to the Chief Minister, Rahul Mamkootathil has sought legal assistance regarding the ensuing legal proceedings. He has approached senior High Court advocate George Poonthottam.

However, a Supreme Court directive states that anticipatory bail should first be sought in the Sessions Court before approaching the High Court. Lawyers are currently examining whether an exception may be made under special circumstances.

Meanwhile, Advocate George Poonthottam commented that submitting a complaint directly to the Chief Minister was procedurally irregular, questioning how the Chief Minister’s office could effectively function as a police station.