Congress Faces Heat for Shielding Rahul Mankootathil Amid New Assault Complaints

Thiruvananthapuram: Despite mounting discontent within the United Democratic Front (UDF) over the controversies surrounding Congress MLA Rahul Mankootathil, the Congress leadership continues to extend protection to him, overlooking objections from several senior leaders. Following a second woman’s sexual assault complaint, a section of party leaders demanded stronger action against Rahul, but the leadership dismissed the calls.

Sources indicate that Congress leaders in Karnataka are helping Rahul remain in hiding, with the operation reportedly coordinated by a senior leader from Kerala. The revelation has intensified criticism that the party leadership is actively shielding Rahul despite the growing number of allegations.

Senior Congress leader Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan expressed confidence that firm action would be taken soon, while K. Muraleedharan remarked that it was time to deploy the “Brahmastra,” signalling strong disciplinary measures. Ramesh Chennithala also assured that strict action was imminent. Meanwhile, national leader Shama Mohammed challenged Rahul to come out of hiding “if he has any integrity,” and Shanimol Usman demanded his immediate expulsion from the party.

In contrast, Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan, KPCC President Sunny Joseph, and Rahul’s close associate Shafi Parambil MP reiterated that the party had already taken steps earlier, even before formal complaints surfaced. Sunny Joseph defended the leadership’s stance, stating that the decision to resign from the Assembly rests solely with Rahul.

Rahul went underground shortly after a young woman submitted a complaint to the Chief Minister accusing him of brutal sexual assault and providing digital evidence to support her allegations. The delay in demanding Rahul’s resignation or removing him from the party, despite multiple confirmed complaints, has angered several leaders and grassroots workers.

Two days ago, a 23-year-old woman from Bengaluru filed another complaint with the KPCC President, stating she had already recorded a detailed statement with the Crime Branch regarding the alleged assault. Senior leaders had earlier cautioned that protecting Rahul in such grave circumstances would damage the party. Nine complaints reportedly received by the KPCC were allegedly suppressed internally, causing intense debate within the organisation.

Meanwhile, the Thiruvananthapuram District Sessions Court will continue hearing Rahul Mankootathil’s anticipatory bail plea today. The Congress MLA remains in hiding in connection with cases relating to rape and forced, unsafe abortion.