Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala state assembly will convene only twice—spanning a maximum of 25–30 sitting days. Since he is suspended from the Congress, Rahul Mamkootathil will effectively remain a “silent member” in the House. If allegations remain strong, he may even take leave during sessions, or simply sign in and leave. He is unlikely to attend any assembly group meetings.

Proving the claims false or demonstrating a conspiracy is the only plausible way back for Rahul — but that lies squarely within the Speaker’s discretion.

Even if he provides notice to raise issues, the Speaker must allow it. However, formal questioning to extract documented responses must not be obstructed. Many MLAs from both CPM and the Congress have faced suspension for disciplinary breaches; this is not a moral debate. Representing Palakkad will now be challenging for Rahul, as both CPM and BJP have declared they will not participate in public events, signalling protest.

What does Ethics Committe do?

If complaints are filed, the Ethics Committee—as in par with the Privilege Committee—can investigate unethical behaviour by MLAs. The MLA themselves need not have to file complaints, anybody can lodge a complaint. Previously, P C George was warned twice over defamatory remarks aimed at Gouri Amma and some nuns.

A suspension equivalent to expulsion?

Rahul’s suspension from the Congress primary membership has no expiration date.

Normally a suspension lasts six months and this is usually stated explicitly. But here, leadership decided not to specify a duration. Typically, internal inquiries are conducted into allegations, but in this case the party decided against it.

Restoring Rahul to full membership will be extremely difficult—that signals the severity of the situation. The suspension is effectively treated as an expulsion.

No resignation to avoid bypoll in Palakkad? 

The party was clearly pushing for a resignation from his MLA seat, and senior and women leaders have emphasised this both privately and publicly.

However, recent developments in Palakkad shifted the party to ‘Plan B’ since a by-election there remains uncertain. Legal experts have said that a bypoll within the Assembly’s eight-month term is permissible, and the Election Commission would have no issues, even if six months haven't passed since the last election. Delhi-based analysts have also not dismissed chances for a bypoll in Palakkad, with the BJP being runner-up, posing difficulties.

CPM, too, opposes a Palakkad by-election. Meanwhile, the focus has shifted online; the Congress is now countering cyber attacks directed at Thrikkakkara MLA Uma Thomas, with campaigning coordinated by KPCC president Sunny Joseph and senior leaders.

On FIRs and political immunity

Despite FIRs being filed, CPM leaders have remained in office, said opposition leader V D Satheesan, noting that even the Chief Minister’s office includes those accused. In BJP, a POCSO-accused individual holds a prominent position.

Taking action against Rahul Mamkootathil marks a first for any party in the state—a major precedent, he claimed. Although no formal complaint has been filed, resignation was made in the Youth Congress president post within 24 hours. Within a day, Rahul lost his party and legislative privileges. Within 24 hours, the Youth Congress president resigned, and a suspension was given. Subsequent developments include a Youth Congress resignation and broader party action.

When asked whether he would resign the MLA seat, Satheesan responded by asking, “Did anyone say he would resign?”