In-Camera Proceedings Conducted on MLA Rahul Mamkootathil’s Pre-Arrest Bail Application in Rape Case
Pranav B Prem
The Principal District and Sessions Court, Thiruvananthapuram, on Wednesday (December 3) conducted in-camera proceedings on the anticipatory bail petition filed by Rahul Mamkootathil, the sitting MLA from the Palakkad constituency, who faces serious allegations of rape and causing miscarriage. Smt. Nazeera S., Principal District and Sessions Judge, conducted the proceedings in-camera, after an application in this regard was preferred by Mamkootathil.
Also Read: Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil Seeks Anticipatory Bail In Rape And Miscarriage Case
After hearing the parties at length, the court adjourned the matter to December 4, directing the prosecution to place on record certain documents and materials that were referred to during the course of argument. The matter will be taken up again tomorrow for continued consideration of the bail plea.
The crime was registered by the Nemom Police, and the MLA has been arrayed as the sole accused. He is facing prosecution for the offences punishable under Sections 64(2)(f), 64(2)(h), 64(2)(m) [Rape], 89 [Causing miscarriage without woman's consent], 115(2) [Voluntarily causing hurt], 351(3) [Criminal intimidation], 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and Section 66(E) of the Information Technology Act [Punishment for violation of privacy].
Mamakootathil has asserted in his plea that the case registered against him is the result of intense political animosity and that the sexual relationship between him and the complainant was consensual. According to him, the present prosecution is politically orchestrated with the intention of shifting public focus away from the much-discussed Sabarimala Gold theft investigation, in which several political leaders have been implicated. He has contended that the criminal proceedings are being misused as a tool to malign him and score political points. Further developments are expected when the petition is taken up again by the court on Thursday.
Appearance
Petitioner/Accused: Sasthamangalam S. Ajithkumar Sr.
Cause Title: Rahul B.R. @ Rahul Mamkootathil v. State of Kerala
Case No: Crl.M.C. No. 3585/ 2025
Coram: Smt. Nazeera S. (Principal District and Sessions Judge)
