Young leaders call shots during crucial meeting; Rahul has the last laugh

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Despite a clarion call from senior leaders for resignation, the action against MLA Rahul Mamkootathil was limited to suspension from the primary membership of the Congress. Even the collective outcry of women leaders did not bear fruit. The KPCC leadership is relieved to have avoided another bypoll in the constituency, as they feared a coup by BJP if elections were to be held now.

Although Rahul can continue as an MLA, he will not be a parliamentary party member. When the next assembly session is held, he will likely take a leave. The UDF will decide whether to write a letter to the Speaker to change his seat.

It is reported that Shafi Parambil MLA and KPCC Working President PC Vishnunath publicly defended Rahul, which forced the state leadership to acquiesce. The soft stance of the high command also came in favour of Rahul. Shafi and Vishnunath explained the chances of a bypoll in Palakkad soon if Rahul were to resign.

KPCC President Sunny Joseph MLA called it illogical to demand the resignation of the MLA. He said there was no tradition in Kerala of MLAs resigning from their post over allegations. He revealed that the decision was taken after consulting with members of the Political Affairs Committee, members of the Congress Working Committee and former KPCC presidents.

It is reported that V.D. Satheesan, Ramesh Chennithala and K. Muraleedharan are dissatisfied with how things turned out.

1. Rahul's political future is in doubt. He will have to sit silently in the assembly. He will not get time to speak, and he will not have a seat in the opposition bloc.

2. The suspension period has not been specified; it may be extended. He is being excluded from the scheduled public programs. If he reaches the constituency, he will face severe protests.

3. It will not be easy for Rahul, who has lost the post of Youth Congress state president, to be considered for any other post. He may have to be a silent witness in the next assembly elections.