Daijiworld Media Network – Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 24: Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, who recently stepped down as Kerala Youth Congress president following allegations of misconduct, is now under growing pressure to resign from the state Assembly as well.

The controversy escalated after a television channel aired an audio clip in which a male voice, purportedly Mamkootathil’s, is heard pressuring a woman to undergo an abortion. The woman is heard resisting, insisting she would raise the child on her own. The voice on the clip is also heard threatening her, sparking widespread outrage.

The storm first erupted when actor and former journalist Rini Ann George alleged that a young politician had sent her inappropriate messages three years ago. Soon after, more allegations surfaced, including testimony from transgender activist Avantika, who claimed that Mamkootathil expressed disturbing “rape fantasies.” WhatsApp chats purportedly showing the MLA making advances towards another woman also went viral.

Mamkootathil has denied wrongdoing, saying no legal complaints have been filed against him. On August 21, he resigned from his organisational posts, including that of state Youth Congress president, but insisted the decision was voluntary and that he would remain an MLA.

The political fallout has been swift. The BJP and CPI(M)’s youth wing DYFI have staged protests in Palakkad, accusing the Congress of shielding him. Women’s groups have also condemned the leaked clips, calling them “deeply disturbing.” Even within Congress, voices are rising that his continuation damages the party’s credibility ahead of elections.

Despite mounting criticism, Mamkootathil remains defiant. “Resignation is not even in my thoughts. Let them complain, I can prove my innocence in court,” he told reporters from his residence in Adoor.

Mamkootathil, who had secured a record victory in the Palakkad bypoll in November 2024, now finds his political career clouded by a scandal that shows no signs of abating.