Thiruvananthapuram: In a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings involving Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, the Kerala Police have decided to place both rape investigations against the legislator under a single Crime Branch team for streamlined handling.
The decision comes amid two separate rape complaints lodged against Mamkootathil, who has been at the centre of a political and legal storm in the state. Police sources confirmed that investigators have now brought both cases each alleging serious sexual assault against the MLA under the jurisdiction of the Crime Branch, the specialised wing handling sensitive and high-profile crimes.
The move is seen as an effort to ensure a more coordinated probe into allegations that have put intense public and political scrutiny on the police and the judicial process. One of the complaints was filed directly by the survivor, a Bengaluru resident, who accused Mamkootathil of raping her at a homestay during a visit to Kerala. A special team led by senior officers has been tasked with investigating that case.
Mamkootathil who was elected as an MLA from the Palakkad constituency and was later expelled from the Indian National Congress amid the controversy has denied all allegations. He has secured interim protection from arrest from the Kerala High Court in one of the cases and was also granted anticipatory bail by a Thiruvananthapuram sessions court in the second case.
Police have emphasised their commitment to a fair and impartial investigation as the legal proceedings continue. Authorities are expected to update the progress on evidence collection and witness testimonies in the coming days.
