Rahul Mamkootathil, the suspended Congress MLA from Kerala, is now facing serious criticism from within his own party and beyond after a series of scandals involving sexual misconduct and threats.
A woman leader from Congress's cultural group, Samskara Sahithi, recently spoke up about her bad experience with Mamkootathil. She said that after returning from Delhi, where she joined a farmers' protest, Mamkootathil sent her inappropriate messages. She also claimed she warned a senior Congress MP, Shafi Parambil, about Mamkootathil's behaviour when he became Youth Congress president in 2023. Her warning, she says, was ignored.
Mamkootathil asked her about going on a Trip together
Shahanas told the media that Mamkootathil messaged her, suggesting they take a trip to Delhi together. She said when she told him she was willing to join the farmers' agitation again, Mamkootathil clarified that he meant a trip with him personally. She added that other women leaders in the party are aware of Mamkootathil’s behaviour.
Rape cases and police action
The police have filed two rape cases against Mamkootathil in the last week. One case involves a woman who said the MLA forced her to have an abortion. A leaked audio clip went viral, revealing Mamkootathil’s threatening. In the clip, he says the pregnancy would “destroy his life” and even threatens to kill her if she refuses. The woman responded that she could raise the baby alone, but Mamkootathil appeared very angry and scared by her words.
After these charges came out, Mamkootathil went missing. The district court in Thiruvananthapuram is currently considering his plea for pre-arrest bail, with a decision expected soon. A second woman, 23 years old, has also accused him of taking advantage of her by promising marriage and then exploiting her.
Malayalam actress Rini George's accusations
Earlier, actress Rini George also accused Mamkootathil of harassment that began three years ago when he sent her friend requests on social media. She said he invited her to a five-star hotel and made unwanted advances. When she warned him she would report his behaviour to senior party members, he dismissed her threats, saying no one would care. Rini George also criticised the party for ignoring her complaints and letting Mamkootathil hold important positions.
Congress leaders call for action
Senior Congress members have suggested Mamkootathil should be removed from the party. KPCC president Sunny Joseph said Mamkootathil was suspended as soon as the first complaint came in August, and he was also removed from the parliamentary group. He said further decisions will be made at the right time.