Kerala Opposition leader warns CPM, BJP of shocking revelations in coming days

While the Congress grapples with the fallout over sexual harassment allegations against its Palakakd MLA Rahul Mamkoottathil, the Leader of Opposition in the Kerala assembly, V D Satheesan on Tuesday sought to shift the focus of the raging scandal around its young leader by stating that the state is set to witness more explosive facts.

Speaking to the media in Kozhikode, he warned that Kerala will soon witness explosive political revelations, cautioning both the CPI-M and BJP against “playing too much”.

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“All I have to say to them is do not play too much on this issue. You are in for a shock. You can take it as a threat also if you want. This is indeed a warning. Kerala will soon be jolted by shocking revelations,” Satheesan said.

He said the issue concerning Mamkootathil was a “closed chapter ” since Congress, as a responsible party, has taken a decision that upholds the self-respect of women.

The senior Congress leader said that the decision to suspend Rahul Mamkoottathil from the party was taken “with an aching heart.”

“It was not an easy decision, but it was necessary. Many appreciated our action, which was hailed as a model decision in Kerala’s political history. The real question is for Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, how can a minister who insulted an IAS officer still remain in his cabinet?” he asked.

He said that the ruling LDF, which is calling for Mamkootathil’s resignation as legislator, was forgetting the fact that one of its MLAs was a rape accused.

“Many ministers accused of sexual harassment cases are still in the cabinet. Tell them to show propriety first and later demand Rahul’s resignation,“ Satheesan said.

He claimed that the CPI-M is highlighting the accusations against Mamkootathil to prevent discussions on hawala-related corruption allegations against the left party’s state secretary M V Govindan’s son and some senior party leaders.

Pointing out the BJP’s bull protest outside his residence last week in view of allegations against Rahul Mamkoottathil, he said, “Don’t release that bull. Tie it up in front of your party office. You will need it soon to take out a march to your president’s house,” Satheesan said.

The Congress on Monday suspended Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, who is facing accusations of inappropriate behavior towards women, from the party’s primary membership.

It was after actress and former journalist Rini Ann George alleged that a ‘young politician ‘from Kerala had sent her offensive messages and invited her to a hotel room over three years ago, the misbehavior charges against him flared up. In the days that followed, several women came forward, accusing him of misconduct and harassment.