Pathanamthitta/Palakkad: Pathanamthitta police on Friday intensified their investigation into Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil at a time when he is facing sexual harassment charges and has lost his primary membership in the Congress. The probe focuses on the alleged use of fake identity cards during the Youth Congress presidential election, which he won and has now stepped down from due to recent allegations.

Searches were conducted at the homes of several Youth Congress workers in Adoor, with five Pathanamthitta natives identified as accused. The first accused, Fenni Ninan, is said to be a close associate of Rahul. Interrogations suggest the investigation may widen further. Although Rahul is not formally named as an accused, earlier digital evidence reportedly pointed towards his possible involvement. Allegations claim fake identity cards were widely produced and used in the election, where he was declared Youth Congress president.

Two Crime Branch teams are leading the inspections in the Adoor area. Reports indicated Rahul has been summoned for questioning on Saturday, but his aides maintained no official notice has been received.

Congress plans cautious public return

Reports suggest a closed-door meeting of Congress workers aligned with Shafi Parambil’s Group A to explore the possibility of bringing Rahul into the Palakkad constituency to regain his dented image due to allegations. Sources said the strategy aims to bring back the suspended legislator into the limelight, who has been staying at his home in Adoor for the past nine days.

With Rahul barred from Congress' primary membership, party leaders fear his appearance at official functions could provoke protests from political rivals. To avoid backlash, plans are being drawn up for him to attend programmes organised by Congress supporters, such as clubs and voluntary bodies, rather than direct party events. His public re-entry is expected after Onam, with events lined up in Mathur, Pirayiri, and Palakkad city. Party strategists also believe that any protests against him could be turned to his political advantage, warning that a prolonged absence from his constituency could prove damaging.

However, KPCC General Secretary C Chandran denied reports that a meeting to facilitate Rahul’s entry into Palakkad was held at his residence. Shafi Parambil also dismissed claims that a Group A gathering took place, saying his visit to Palakkad was only to attend a wedding.