Internal rebellion brews in Palakkad Congress against Rahul and Shafi

PALAKKAD: Tensions have surfaced in the Palakkad Congress with sharp criticism directed at MLA Rahul Mamkootathil and MP Shafi Parambil. Detractors accused the two of behaving “like pickpockets at a festival ground” during the by-election and demanded clarity on the large sums of money reportedly mobilised at the time. Questions have also been raised about the source of funds used by Rahul to buy a car after he assumed office as MLA. Some leaders claimed they opposed Rahul’s candidature due to his personal flaws.

Discontent against Shafi Parambil has grown further since Rahul was compelled to resign as Youth Congress state president. Local leaders argue that Shafi consistently shielded Rahul, and a section of Congress and Youth Congress workers have already escalated their grievances to the party high command.

According to party insiders, it was Shafi who pushed for Rahul’s candidature in the Palakkad by-election, despite senior leaders, including the DCC president, urging the KPCC to field K. Muraleedharan instead. While allegations against Rahul continue to stir internal unrest, Shafi Parambil has yet to issue any response.