Kerala High Court Stays Arrest of MLA Rahul Mamkootathil Amidst Rape Allegations

The Kerala High Court has stalled the arrest of Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, who is evading capture over rape allegations. Justice K Babu will hear detailed arguments after December 15. The MLA's anticipatory bail was denied, while he faces charges under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

The Kerala High Court has intervened to delay the arrest of Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, who remains elusive following rape accusations. A bench led by Justice K Babu has directed a hearing for detailed arguments on the anticipatory bail plea, with discussions set for December 15.

Mamkootathil had sought relief from the High Court after the Thiruvananthapuram Principal Sessions Court turned down his request for anticipatory bail. Despite this, the MLA has continued to avoid authorities for ten consecutive days. The allegations involve sexual assault and other serious charges, prompting a complex legal battle.

The case, sparked by a woman's complaint, details accusations of sexual assault under the guise of marriage, forced abortion, and several counts of repeated rape. It is backed by an FIR initially filed at Nedumangad Valiyamala Police Station and later transferred to Nemom Police Station, aligning with jurisdictional protocols.

The charges under consideration involve eight non-bailable sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, spanning from charges of rape to digital offences. Punishments for these allegations range significantly, leading up to life imprisonment. The political fallout has seen the Kerala Chief Minister criticizing Congress for previously backing Mamkootathil, despite grave accusations suggesting severe wrongdoing.

In response, Rahul Mamkootathil has been expelled from Congress, as confirmed by Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee President Sunny Joseph. The expulsion followed serious allegations and subsequent criminal registrations, marking a contentious chapter for the party amidst ongoing legal scrutiny.