The controversy surrounding absconding Kerala MLA Rahul Mamkootathil has escalated dramatically after a second woman came forward, accusing the suspended Congress leader of sexual assault under the pretext of marriage. Mamkootathil is already facing charges of rape and forced abortion in an earlier case.
The new complainant, a 23-year-old woman from Bengaluru, emailed her allegations directly to the Congress state leadership, including KPCC chief Sunny Joseph, who immediately forwarded the complaint to the special investigation team (SIT) already probing the first rape case against the MLA.
Details of the Fresh Complaint
The woman alleges that Mamkootathil established contact with her through Instagram and expressed his desire to marry her with her family’s consent.
- Alleged Assault: She claims that in 2023, after agreeing to the proposal, she met Mamkootathil at a homestay in Pathanamthitta to discuss marriage plans. At the homestay, she alleges the MLA proceeded to sexually assault her, causing grievous injuries.
- Accusation of Deception: In her complaint, the woman detailed the assault, stating: “He ignored my objections, repeatedly asserting that such intimacy was ‘natural between lovers’ who were going to get married. Despite my resistance, he assaulted and violated me brutally.” She claims the assault caused her to suffer a severe panic attack.
- Alleged Betrayal: Following the attack, the woman claims the Congress leader “coldly stated he had no intention of marrying anyone, including me.”
The complainant labeled Mamkootathil “a sexual predator who systematically misuses his political power to groom, deceive and exploit young women.” She requested the Congress leadership to prohibit him from holding any role involving public engagement, especially with women and children.
KPCC Chief Forwards Complaint
KPCC Chief Sunny Joseph confirmed receiving the email and taking immediate action.
“I got the complaint via email this afternoon… I have forwarded the complaint to the state DGP,” Joseph told local media. He added that he informed the complainant that the MLA is currently under suspension from the party.
Context of Ongoing Cases
The fresh complaint follows just days after Kerala police formally booked Mamkootathil for raping a woman and forcing her to abort her pregnancy.
- Audio Evidence: That formal complaint was preceded by audio clips surfaced on local media, where a male voice, purportedly the MLA’s, is heard instructing the woman to “stop being dramatic” about her pregnancy. Earlier clips from August reportedly featured the MLA allegedly threatening the woman, saying he did not need much time to kill her if he wished.
- Suspension and Status: Mamkootathil was suspended from the Congress primary party membership in August when the initial allegations arose. He is currently absconding.
- Legal Move: An anticipatory bail petition filed by the suspended legislator in a Thiruvananthapuram court is scheduled to be heard today, Wednesday.