Thiruvananthapuram: In a stunning blow to the political establishment, the Thiruvananthapuram District Principal Sessions Court on Thursday rejected the anticipatory bail application of MLA Rahul Mamkoottathil in a high-profile rape case. The ruling immediately cleared all legal hurdles for the police to arrest the legislator, who now faces imminent detention.
Following the court’s decisive action, the political party took swift and punitive measures, announcing that Mamkoottathil had been expelled from its primary membership. This expulsion comes shortly after the party had initially suspended him, signaling a zero-tolerance stance following the severe judicial setback.
Court Arguments and Dismissal
Mamkoottathil’s counsel argued in court that the relationship between the MLA and the complainant was consensual, and that the alleged incident stemmed from a mutually agreeable association. However, the court did not accept this defense, dismissing the plea and paving the way for further legal proceedings.
The court’s order has sparked a major crisis within the political ranks. State party President Sunny Joseph addressed the media, stating clearly that it would be best for the party and the public interest if the accused MLA resigned from his legislative assembly position immediately.
The focus now shifts to the police and the legislature, as authorities prepare for the MLA’s arrest and pressure mounts on the politician to relinquish his post. Mamkoottathil’s fate remains uncertain as his legal recourse narrows and his political career is effectively over.
