Nation

The controversy originally surfaced when several women—including model Rini Ann George and writer Honey Bhaskaran—accused Mamkootathil of sending obscene messages and inappropriate advances. Although no police complaints have been filed yet, media reports and circulation of suggestive audio clips intensified scrutiny. One such clip reportedly captured the MLA encouraging a woman to undergo an abortion; the authenticity remains unverified.

Reacting swiftly to public outrage, Mamkootathil resigned from his role as Kerala Youth Congress state president. He later issued an apology to the public and party workers amid swirling rumors about his political exit.

The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) explained that suspension was preferred over resignation to prevent triggering a by-election in Palakkad—something the party feared could erode its political foothold just months before the assembly elections. This strategy, endorsed by senior leaders including KPCC leadership, was seen as a pragmatic means to contain reputational fallout.

Opposition voices, however, remain unsatisfied. V. D. Satheesan, Leader of the Opposition, hinted that further action is likely as all allegations are being carefully evaluated. He criticized rival parties for hypocrisy and emphasized that respecting accusers and conducting a fair investigation are fundamentally important to the Congress’s ethical stance.

Adding weight to calls for quick resolution, former Nilambur MLA P. V. Anvar revealed that a Youth Congress leader had approached him with complaints from two women, and the accused had not refuted the authenticity of the audio clips circulating online. Urging the party to demand resignation, Anvar warned of severe political consequences as less than a year remains until the assembly elections.

Mahila Morcha and BJP activists in Kerala have amplified protests, demanding transparency and accountability. They brought up additional allegations from women and transgender individuals, supported by chat histories and voice messages.

Despite the outrage, Mamkootathil remains firmly in his MLA role—though barred from participating in party functions and legislative meetings during the suspension. He has not formally addressed or disavowed the more troubling charges, instead offering to respond only if an official case is filed.