Thiruvananthapuram:
The rape allegation against the suspended Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil has moved into a decisive phase, as investigators now begin to capture statements from witnesses while the MP stays in a confidential location.
He is believed to be living in Palakkad, following legal counsel to remain within that jurisdiction until his anticipatory bail hearing.
Earlier claims that he had left the state have been proven inaccurate; sources confirm his presence has remained in Palakkad.
His official vehicle is still parked at his apartment, but he has apparently shifted to a private spot, using a friend’s vehicle to get around.
Both his aide and the driver are also thought to be on Palakkad soil.
The probe has stepped up, with the investigative squad starting to record testimonies on Saturday.
They plan to interview first the medical officer who handled the complainant after she allegedly took an abortion drug, then collect statements from her circle of friends.
The complainant’s confidential account and her medical examination were both concluded on Thursday.
Interviews with her by the officers uncovered key discrepancies with the arguments presented in Mamkootathil’s bail plea.
She explained that her brief marriage—conducted in August 2024 at a temple but never legally registered—lasted only a month, encompassing just four days together.
She further clarified that she met Mamkootathil five months after the split, which challenges the MLA’s claim that she was still in a marriage while their relationship started—a central point in his defence.
In his bail submission to the Thiruvananthapuram District Court, Mamkootathil insists the relationship was consensual, denying any allegations of rape or forced abortion.
He argues the accusations are “fabricated and politically motivated,” citing what he says was a rush‑in police response.
The District Sessions Court will consider his anticipatory bail request on Wednesday.
The controversy began in August, after he was stripped of his role as Youth Congress president and suspended from the party.
In response, police have strengthened the investigation by appointing a high‑level Special Investigation Team, led by City Police Commissioner Thomson Jose.
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