Humiliating downfall rocks party; Rahul steps down as Youth Congress president

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The resignation of Rahul Mamkootathil from the post of Youth Congress president following allegations of misconduct has come as an unexpected setback for the state Congress, especially with preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections underway.

The party leadership hopes that his resignation will help contain the damage and avoid further embarrassment. However, the demand that Rahul should also step down as MLA is gaining strength not just from the Opposition but also from the public.

Adding to the pressure, lawyer Shinto Sebastian has filed complaints with the Ernakulam Central Police and the Child Rights Commission, demanding a criminal case against Rahul for allegedly pressuring a woman to undergo an abortion. If the matter proceeds legally, it could become a serious challenge for the Congress.

The controversy broke out after a young actress revealed on Kaumudy YouTube channel that a young prominent political leader had sent her obscene messages. Phone conversations, allegedly of Rahul forcing a woman to undergo an abortion, and vulgar WhatsApp chats with women also surfaced. Following this, senior Congress leaders withdrew their support. With the AICC taking a tough stand, Rahul had no option but to resign.

AICC leaders also held discussions with state leaders, including Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan. Once the national leadership insisted on his resignation, the state unit had to comply, closing all options for Rahul.

Even V.D. Satheesan, who usually encourages young leaders, took a strict stance. He even skipped a press meet that was scheduled yesterday. KPCC president Sunny Joseph, who had initially claimed that Rahul Mamkootathil’s resignation was not demanded, later remained silent. Ramesh Chennithala reportedly directed tough action, considering the seriousness of the allegations.

Evidence has emerged supporting the serious allegation that Rahul Mamkootathil had forced a young woman to undergo an abortion. Recordings of conversations between the two were circulated yesterday. To protect the woman’s privacy, her voice was altered using technical means before being released. Some WhatsApp chats have also been shared.

High command had already received complaints

• The party had initially hoped that the actress’s allegation about obscene messages would fade. But with more conversations surfacing, the controversy deepened.
• The AICC leadership had already received complaints against Rahul Mamkootathil. The high command toughened its stand after national media reported the issue yesterday.
• Sources say Deepa Dasmunsi, AICC leader in charge of Kerala, had also received complaints and had spoken to state leaders about it.
• A group of Youth Congress workers from Palakkad had also complained to the high command, accusing Shafi Parambil of shielding Rahul.