Expelled Kerala Congress MLA Mamkootathil Remanded To 14-Day Judicial Custody In 3rd Sexual Assault Case
His arrest in Palakkad, following a sexual assault complaint received via email, comes amid heightened scrutiny, as investigations into the previous two cases are ongoing.
Published : January 11, 2026 at 7:49 AM IST
|Updated : January 11, 2026 at 4:14 PM IST
Pathanamthitta: Following his arrest in connection with a new sexual assault case, the now expelled Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil has been remanded to 14-day judicial custody. This was the third complaint filed against him related to serious allegations, including physical assault, financial exploitation and forced abortion.
Mamkootathil was arrested in Palakkad following a sexual assault complaint received via email. The arrest comes amid heightened scrutiny, as investigations into the previous two cases are ongoing.
In the first case, the Kerala High Court had stayed his arrest, while a trial court had granted anticipatory bail in the second case. Recently, the investigation into the first alleged rape was transferred to the state Police Crime Branch following an official order. Previously handled by the Thiruvananthapuram City police commissioner, the probe into both rape cases is now overseen by assistant inspector general of police Poonguzhali, who continues to supervise the investigation into the second case.
Mamkootathil has been charged with rape and criminal intimidation. The remand report highlights concerns that the accused, being a member of the assembly with high-level political connections, may threaten survivors and influence witnesses. The police also reported that despite registration of the case, survivors faced threats and attempts to dissuade them from pursuing the case, raising fears of repeat actions in the latest case.
Furthermore, Mamkootathil has reportedly shown a lack of cooperation, refusing to unlock his phone for investigation. According to the remand report, the 31-year-old victim was allegedly raped after being lured to a hotel with promises of marriage. The incident reportedly took place in a luxurious hotel room, where she was brutally assaulted. Police said Mamkootathil called the survivor to the hotel and committed the crime there. The investigation team emphasised the need to deny bail, citing the accused's influence and ongoing threats to witnesses.
The arrest triggered widespread protests, as supporters of the DYFI and BJP gathered in front of the General Hospital, blocking police vehicles and demanding the MLA's resignation. Mamkootathil was taken into custody by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) from the KPM Hotel in Palakkad city around midnight. The case continues to draw significant public attention amid ongoing political and legal developments.
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