Rahul Mamkootathil returns to Palakkad amid protests over sexual harassment allegations

Suspended Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, who is facing allegations of sexual harassment, returned to his Palakkad constituency on Wednesday after a 38-day break, despite protests threatened by the DYFI, the youth wing of the CPI(M), and the BJP.

This is his first visit to Palakkad since being expelled from the Congress Parliamentary Party over sexual harassment allegations and resigning as state president of the Youth Congress.

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Rahul arrived in Palakkad along with local Congress leaders and later reached his MLA office around 4 p.m. Despite earlier demonstrations by DYFI and BJP workers, he went ahead with his visit.

Mahila Morcha activists also staged a protest against him, wielding brooms. By the time he arrived, the situation had calmed, allowing him to interact with constituents and accept petitions at his office.

A large number of police personnel had been deployed outside the MLA office since morning in anticipation of protests from opposition parties.

Although the Congress leadership has officially stated that Rahul is no longer part of the party, several Congress leaders accompanied him during his visit. His car was driven by Nikhil Kannadi, Palakkad district president of the KSU, the student wing of Congress. KPCC executive member C. Chandran and Youth Congress district president Jayaghosh were also present.

Speaking to the media, Rahul said he would give a detailed response later. He added that, as someone who has led several agitations in the past, he would “welcome any protests” against him.

Rahul Mamkootathil was suspended from the primary membership of the Congress on August 21, following allegations of inappropriate behavior towards women. On the same day, he resigned as Youth Congress state president after multiple accusations, including statements by actress Rini Ann George and transwoman Avanthika, who alleged harassment.

Meanwhile, BJP state vice president C. Krishnakumar accused the Congress of shielding Rahul despite his suspension.
“Rahul was expelled from the primary membership of the Congress. Yet, Congress leaders are providing him protection. This shows Congress’ double standards,” Krishnakumar said.

He further added that Rahul would not be allowed to participate in official programs as an MLA and warned that protests would continue until Rahul resigns.