Crime Branch Questions Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil in Rape Case: What You Need to Know

Kerala Crime Branch questions Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil in a high-profile rape case amid multiple allegations, legal battles, and political controversy.

In a case that has captured political and public attention in India, the Crime Branch of the Kerala Police has questioned Rahul Mamkootathil, the legislator from Palakkad, in connection with a serious rape and sexual assault case. The investigation by specialized police teams continues to unfold amid intense media scrutiny, legal twists, and political fallout from the allegations that have plagued the MLA over the past several months.

Who Is Rahul Mamkootathil?

Rahul Mamkootathil is a former Youth Congress leader and was a sitting MLA representing the Palakkad constituency. Amid a wave of sexual misconduct and assault complaints, he was suspended and later expelled from the Indian National Congress, and now faces multiple police cases — including rape, forced abortion allegations, stalking, and criminal intimidation.

The Crime Branch Inquiry and Arrest

Kerala’s Crime Branch Special Investigation Team (SIT) took Mamkootathil into custody in early January from a hotel in Palakkad after receiving a fresh complaint from a woman alleging rape and subsequent coercion to abort a pregnancy. He was then transferred to secure custody for questioning by the Crime Branch, which is probing evidence including electronic records, medical reports, and witness statements.

As part of the ongoing probe, the Crime Branch has questioned him multiple times, exploring his role in the alleged offenses and possible connections with earlier complaints. The investigation has gathered momentum as law enforcement seeks clarity on what is described as a “series of sexual assault allegations” involving more than one complainant.

Multiple Allegations and Complaints

This is not an isolated case. Mamkootathil faces at least three separate sexual assault complaints:

• The first case was registered after a woman alleged she was sexually assaulted and coerced into termination of pregnancy. The complaint, initially forwarded to police after being submitted to the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee leadership, triggered official action.

• The second case emerged from a complaint by a woman alleging sexual assault and misconduct, leading to a separate FIR and law enforcement response.

• The third case, which led to his arrest and questioning by the Crime Branch, involves an NRI woman who has accused him of rape and forced abortion after allegedly contacting him through social media.

Because of the gravity of the complaints — including non-bailable offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita like Section 64 (rape), Section 89 (causing miscarriage without consent), and others — the case has drawn heightened legal and public attention.

Bail Developments and Court Proceedings

While in custody, Mamkootathil’s legal battle has seen several twists:

• Kerala High Court granted anticipatory bail in the first of the sexual assault cases — a move that provides him temporary protection from arrest while the matter proceeds through the courts.

• In the third case, the Sessions Court granted bail to Mamkootathil after his arrest, noting evidence and procedural considerations, though investigations continue.

These developments illustrate the complexity of the case, which has now seen judicial intervention at multiple stages.

Political and Public Reactions

The allegations have severely affected Mamkootathil’s political standing:

• The Congress party suspended and later expelled him amid mounting complaints and internal pressure to uphold moral accountability.

• His controversial conduct has prompted protests from youth and opposition political groups, who have demanded stricter action and condemnation of alleged abuses of power.

The opposition and civil society voices argue that public representatives should face stringent scrutiny and that due process must be followed to ensure justice for alleged survivors.

Allegations Beyond Rape: Additional Charges

Apart from sexual violence claims, Mamkootathil has faced FIRs for stalking and criminal intimidation, adding to the legal quagmire surrounding his name. These cases emerged earlier in 2025 and involve cyber harassment and threats against alleged victims, illustrating the broader pattern of allegations he faces.

What Happens Next?

The Crime Branch continues its detailed investigation, collating:

• Electronic evidence

• Medical and forensic records

• Witness statements

• Digital communication data

Authorities have stated that the investigation will move forward without political interference, and the process will determine if charges hold up in court. Both prosecution and defence will have opportunities to present their arguments as the legal proceedings carry on.

As the case unfolds, courts will play a crucial role in adjudication, while political repercussions and public reactions are likely to continue shaping the narrative around this high-profile controversy.

❓ FAQs

Q1. Why was Rahul Mamkootathil questioned?
He was questioned by the Kerala Crime Branch in connection with an alleged rape case under investigation.

Q2. Has Rahul Mamkootathil been arrested?
As of now, there are no reports of arrest. The investigation is ongoing.

Q3. What is the role of the Crime Branch in this case?
The Crime Branch is conducting the investigation, collecting evidence, and recording statements.

Q4. Has the MLA responded to the allegations?
Yes, he has denied wrongdoing and stated he will cooperate with authorities.