Expelled Kerala MLA Rahul Mamkootathil Rules Out Independent Bid, Puts Candidacy in Congress’s Hands
A complainant has petitioned the Supreme Court to cancel his anticipatory bail following his return to Palakkad on bail in three sexual-assault cases.
Overview
- The expelled Palakkad legislator said he will not contest as an independent and will run only if the Congress asks him to do so.
- He told supporters he is encouraged by their backing but noted he cannot campaign for the party while under expulsion.
- After obtaining bail in all three sexual-assault cases, he resumed limited public activity in Palakkad in his first visit since his January 11 arrest by the Special Investigation Team.
- A complainant has moved the Supreme Court seeking cancellation of the Kerala High Court’s anticipatory-bail order, alleging multiple victims including a minor.
- Once a rising Youth Congress figure who won the 2024 Palakkad bypoll by over 18,000 votes despite being non-local, he now faces active criminal probes and uncertain electoral prospects.