Arrest without following procedures; Delay in giving statement, more details on Rahul's bail order revealed

KOTTAYAM: The details of the verdict granting bail to Rahul Mamkootathil MLA in the third rape case have surfaced. The bail was granted by the Pathanamthitta Sessions Court. The court has asked Rahul to appear before the investigating officer every Saturday, not to influence witnesses and not to make any threats through social media.

The court informed that Rahul is being granted bail as the special investigation team does not need further custody. The court also mentioned in the bail order that further consideration will be given to the digital documents submitted by the defendant at the next stage of the case. The investigation is at an early stage and the order states that Rahul's arrest procedures were not followed.

The court granted bail after considering the defendant's argument that the complainant was late in giving her statement after the rape (one year and nine months). Since the complainant is abroad, the argument that Rahul will threaten her if he is released on bail does not stand and there are no other direct witnesses in the case, and therefore, custody is no longer required.

The Thiruvalla Magistrate Court had earlier rejected Rahul's bail plea in the third rape case. Justice Arundhati Dileep passed an order on his bail plea. The verdict came after two hours of detailed arguments in a closed courtroom. M G Devi appeared for the prosecution. The defense presented digital evidence, including evidence, to prove that Rahul had a consensual relationship with the woman.