The Thiruvalla Magistrate Court has rejected bail for expelled Congress legislator Rahul Mamkootathil, who has been in custody since his recent arrest in connection with a rape case. Consequently, Mamkootathil will remain detained at the Mavelikkara sub-jail while his legal team plans to approach the Pathanamthitta district court for relief. The prosecution argued against the bail plea, labeling Mamkootathil as a “habitual offender” and highlighting his prior temporary relief from the High Court in similar cases.
The prosecution also raised concerns about potential additional complaints emerging, contending that granting bail could impede the investigation and intimidate witnesses. The court’s decision follows the conclusion of arguments on the bail plea, with Friday’s hearing conducted in a closed courtroom due to the case’s sensitive nature. Notably, the court considered a detailed report from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) tasked with probing the allegations.
During the hearing, the prosecution revealed multiple complaints against Mamkootathil, noting two pending sexual assault cases. Additionally, steps are being taken to record the complainant’s confidential statement. Evidence presented in court included chat records between Mamkootathil and the woman. In defense, it was argued that the relationship was consensual, emphasizing Mamkootathil’s cooperation potential as a former public figure if granted bail.
The case has sparked broader controversy, with alleged WhatsApp chat screenshots between Mamkootathil and the complainant shared by a friend, leading to a cyber harassment case against the friend. Another Congress worker was also arrested for posting content targeting the complainant. Mamkootathil was apprehended on January 11 from a Palakkad hotel and has since been in police and judicial custody, with investigations extending to locations relevant to the case.
