Palakkad: In a setback for the CPM-led LDF, the police could not find any evidence to support the claim that Rahul Mamkootathil, the UDF candidate, brought black money in a blue trolley bag to a hotel in connection with the Palakkad byelection. The Special Branch's preliminary investigation report has been handed over to the Palakkad District Superintendent of Police, stating that no further action is required.

The police had conducted a search of the hotel following complaints from CPM leaders, who alleged that the trolley bag contained black money. The investigation team seized a hard disk and reviewed 22 CCTV cameras from the hotel as part of their inquiry.

The CPM had released footage showing a Youth Congress leader arriving at the hotel with the trolley bag, claiming it contained black money. However, Rahul Mankoottil responded, stating that the bag contained his personal clothes. The police raided the rooms, including that of women leaders of the Congress, at night that too without the presence of any woman cop. 

In response, Congress leaders Shanimol Usman and Bindhu Krishna filed complaints with the police against the actions taken.