The Kerala High Court on Saturday (December 6, 2025) granted interim protection from arrest to expelled Congress leader and Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, who faces serious charges of rape and forced abortion.
A Bench led by Justice K. Babu directed the police not to arrest Mamkootathil until December 15, when his anticipatory bail plea will be taken up for detailed hearing.
Court Observes: ‘None Shall Be Condemned Until Heard’
In his plea, Mamkootathil argued that the allegations cited in the FIR do not meet the legal definition of rape and insisted that the relationship was consensual.
The court noted that serious contentions had been raised and reiterated that every accused has the right to be heard.
Mamkootathil told the court he was willing to cooperate fully with the investigation and explain every circumstance without the fear of arrest.
Accused Claims Delay, Political Motive Behind Complaint
The MLA argued that the complaint was “highly belated” and had been submitted directly to the Chief Minister rather than through the normal police channels.
He further claimed:
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No custodial interrogation is necessary
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He will cooperate with investigators
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The allegations arise from political opponents attempting to “encash” the situation ahead of local body elections
Mamkootathil has been booked by Nemom police in Thiruvananthapuram based on a complaint by a woman who accused him of sexual exploitation.
Earlier Bail Denied; Senior Officer to Supervise Second Case
The anticipatory bail plea before the High Court comes after the Principal Sessions Court, Thiruvananthapuram, rejected his bail on Thursday.
The State has also appointed AIG Poonguzhali to supervise the investigation in connection with a second rape allegation against the MLA.
MLA’s Version of Events
In his petition, Mamkootathil, aged 36, said:
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He leads a bachelor life
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He met the complainant while interacting with mediapersons as part of his political work
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Their relationship grew over time
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A “confidence issue” emerged when certain voice clips circulating online were believed by the woman to endanger her privacy
He claims the woman distanced herself due to media pressure and now seeks to disown the relationship.
He also rejected the accusations regarding miscarriage and forced abortion as “false and fabricated.”
