Kerala Congress MLA Suspended for Six Months Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Thiruvananthapuram — The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) has suspended Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil from its primary membership for six months due to allegations of sexual misconduct, according to a statement released on Monday. The decision follows intense scrutiny after Mamkootathil stepped down as Youth Congress president last week amid mounting accusations.

The KPCC, led by president Sunny Joseph, alongside Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala, opted for suspension to mitigate political fallout, as a resignation could trigger a by-election in Palakkad. The move aims to quell controversy without risking the seat. Mamkootathil will be barred from attending legislative and party meetings during the suspension.

The allegations surfaced when transwoman Avantika accused Mamkootathil of coercion and threats, supported by audio clips allegedly featuring him pressuring a woman into an abortion. Mamkootathil has not denied the voice recordings outright but has refrained from seeking forensic verification, opting instead to release WhatsApp chats to defend himself. He maintains he will respond legally if a formal case is filed.

Pressure for his resignation as MLA has grown, with women leaders like Shanimol Usman and Uma Thomas joining calls for action. The State Women’s Commission and Child Rights Commission have taken note of the allegations, particularly after additional damaging audio emerged. Despite demands from the ruling CPI(M) and BJP for his resignation, the Congress leadership has resisted, citing legal advice favoring suspension over resignation.

The controversy has sparked protests from CPI(M) and BJP, who argue Mamkootathil’s continued role as MLA undermines public trust. The KPCC hopes the suspension will temper the political storm while maintaining its hold on Palakkad. This story, as reported by NDTV, remains unedited by their staff and originates from a syndicated feed.