Following allegations of indecent behavior leveled by writer Honey Bhaskaran and model Rini N. George, the Congress party has suspended Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamakootathil from the party's primary membership.
Kochi: In Kerala, the Congress party has suspended Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamakootathil from the primary membership of its parliamentary party. This action comes after serious allegations made by Malayalam actress Rini N. George and writer Honey Bhaskaran.
The party has clarified that despite the suspension, Rahul Mamakootathil will continue his functions as an MLA. This step was taken as opposition grew within the party and among the public following the allegations, and demands for the MLA's resignation gained momentum.
What is the matter?
Writer Honey Bhaskaran and actress Rini N. George have made serious allegations of indecent behavior and sexual harassment against the Palakkad MLA. The allegations state that Mamakootathil engaged in objectionable behavior towards several women, as well as transgender individuals. The BJP and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) have held protests demanding the MLA's resignation in this matter. On Sunday, the DYFI (Democratic Youth Federation of India) held a protest march in Palakkad, demanding the MLA's immediate resignation.
BJP council party leader Navya Haridas said that these allegations against Mamakootathil are not a single complaint. Several women and transgender people have filed complaints of sexual harassment against him. Haridas told ANI, "The allegations against Rahul Mamakootathil have come to light with evidence, chat history, voice messages, and other digital records. Therefore, this matter is serious and cannot be taken lightly."
Reaction of Congress Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan
On Thursday, Congress leader and Kerala Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan said that the party is conducting a thorough investigation into the allegations. He also clarified that the party will not show any leniency if the allegations are found to be serious. Rahul Mamakootathil had previously resigned from the post of state president of the Youth Congress. However, he will continue to function as an MLA. The Congress has clarified that the investigation into the allegations will be conducted with complete fairness and transparency.
