Month after facing sexual misconduct charges, Rahul Mamkootathil returns to Palakkad amid protests
Rahul Mamkootathil, the Congress MLA from Palakkad in Kerala, made headlines Wednesday when he returned to his constituency after 38 days away. Facing serious sexual misconduct allegations, the first-time lawmaker drew both cheers from supporters and jeers from protesters during his visit.
Mamkootathil kicked off his day by honoring the late former constituency president Xavier at his home. But things heated up quickly outside his office, where BJP workers and the CPI(M)’s youth wing staged protests. Police stepped in with extra security to keep tensions from boiling over.
Staying calm amid the chaos, Mamkootathil toured the area with a group of loyal Congress party workers by his side. At one emotional moment, senior Congress MP Benny Behanan hugged him, giving a clear boost to the troubled politician’s spirits.
He had left his Adoor home at 2 a.m. to reach Palakkad, where eager supporters waited to welcome him back. Reporters bombarded him with questions about the allegations and his shaky political future, but Mamkootathil just offered his usual smile and stayed silent, dodging any direct answers.
The drama started back on August 17 when he left Palakkad. Just three days later, the first sexual misconduct claims emerged. As the scandal grew, Congress suspended him from primary membership while an inquiry continues. In the Kerala Assembly, Speaker A.N. Shamseer even gave him a separate seat.
Mamkootathil showed up only for the opening day of the 12-day session and skipped the rest. With the House about to restart soon, everyone wonders if he’ll return for the proceedings.
This controversy has split the Congress party. Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan stands firm, backing the suspension as a team decision from state leaders. Yet, some Palakkad Congress figures rally behind Mamkootathil, promising to shield him no matter what.
His return feels like a bold move to reclaim his ground after weeks in the shadows. For now, he plans to stick around Palakkad for a few days, rebuilding ties with his base. The blend of loyal support, rival anger, and his own quiet stance highlights the ongoing uncertainty in his career.
One telling detail: As his car crossed into the nearby Malampuzha Assembly area, workers removed the MLA board from it, signaling the tough road ahead for the suspended leader.
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