Rahul gone into hiding? MLA not reachable on phone; Crime Branch chief at CM's office

PALAKKAD: Reports claim that Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil has gone into hiding after a young woman filed a complaint alleging sexual assault. Apart from a Facebook post saying “truth will win,” no information about Rahul’s whereabouts is available. Calls to the MLA’s mobile number went unanswered, and the phones of his close associates are also switched off. Police are expected to move forward with arrest procedures after registering the case.

The police plan to arrest Rahul tonight after recording the complainant’s statement and registering the FIR. It is reported that the Crime Branch chief, who is heading the investigation, arrived at the Chief Minister’s office in person and briefed the situation. The noose tightened around Rahul after the young woman directly submitted a complaint to the Chief Minister and handed over digital evidence.

Meanwhile, unconfirmed reports suggest that Rahul Mamkootathil is trying to secure anticipatory bail. There are indications that he has held discussions with a High Court lawyer. Rahul has stated that he has done nothing wrong and will prove his innocence in court. The Congress leadership, sensing political damage, has distanced itself from him. The KPCC president said the party is not supporting the MLA and reminded that he has already been suspended.

In his Facebook post, Rahul said he would fight legally as long as he believes he is innocent, and that he would prove this both in the court of law and before the people. At the same time, the CPM and BJP have demanded that Rahul resign as MLA following the complaint against him. Both parties have decided to hold a march to the MLA’s office.