No further explanation: Rahul Mamkootathil withdraws from press conference at last minute

PATHANAMTHITTA: Rahul Mamkootathil, who announced that he would hold a press conference, withdrew from it at the last minute. Rahul reportedly said that he was not available for further explanation. It is learnt that the press conference was cancelled after senior leaders intervened.

The announcement of the press conference came shortly after the audio recording of Rahul Mamkootathil forcing a woman to have an abortion, making obscene remarks and threatening her was released. There were also talks that the press conference was to announce his resignation from the post of MLA. However, the news of the press conference being cancelled was announced shortly after the media personnel reached his house.

Meanwhile, opposition leader VD Satheesan is reportedly firm in his stance that Rahul should resign as an MLA. He had stated in a press conference this morning that strict action will be taken. The party centres believe that with the local body and assembly elections just around the corner, if Rahul resigns, it will give a clean image to the Congress and the UDF. They are also estimating that Rahul's resignation will give the party bonus marks, as the accused in the LDF did not resign. It is reported that leaders including Ramesh Chennithala are also in favour of Rahul's resignation.

Shafi Parambil MP's stand of protecting Rahul at a press conference has led to dissatisfaction among the leaders. The question of why this is happening is being raised among the leaders and workers.