Thiruvananthapuram: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing sexual misconduct allegations against Congress MLA Rahul Mamkoottathil has recorded the statement of Shinto Sebastian, the lawyer who initially brought the matter to public attention.

Sebastian, a Kochi-based advocate, had earlier filed a complaint with Ernakulam Central Police citing multiple allegations of inappropriate behaviour by Mamkoottathil, including one from a transgender individual. The complaint was later handed over to the SIT following the registration of a Zero-FIR.

The SIT, which includes officers from the Crime Branch, recorded Sebastian’s statement at its Thiruvananthapuram office before noon on Monday. Officials confirmed that the lawyer was not a direct witness or party to any of the alleged incidents.

After giving his statement, Sebastian told reporters that he submitted six video links as evidence and a phone recording in which the MLA purportedly pressured a woman into terminating her pregnancy. He also revealed that a petition had been submitted to the Child Rights Commission.

Sebastian expressed concern that many victims were hesitant to come forward due to fear of online harassment by supporters of the Congress party. He urged authorities to ensure a safe environment for complainants, emphasising that only then could a legislator like Mamkoottathil be held accountable.

As per the Crime Branch, the SIT has received 15 complaints to date — none of which are from direct victims. Last week, a Zero-FIR (a First Information Report that can be filed at any police station, regardless of the jurisdiction where the crime occurred) was registered against Mamkoottathil under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Section 78(2) for stalking, Section 351 for criminal intimidation and Section 120(O) of the Kerala Police Act for causing public nuisance via communication.

Mamkoottathil, who is facing multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, resigned from his role as State Youth Congress president before being suspended from the party. Nevertheless, both the CPM and the BJP have demanded that he also resign as an MLA.

PTI