Pathanamthitta: The Judicial First Class Magistrate Court in Thiruvalla on Saturday rejected the bail plea of Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil in connection with a case involving the alleged rape of an NRI woman, dealing a setback to the legislator. With the application dismissed, Rahul will remain in judicial custody.
Denying bail, Judge Arundhathi Dileep noted that Rahul is a sitting MLA and that the allegations against him are serious in nature. The court also took into account his alleged past antecedents and expressed concern over the possibility of witnesses being intimidated or influenced, evidence being tampered with, and the investigation being adversely affected if bail were granted, TNIE reported.
The court further observed that the victim’s statement, at this stage, does not indicate a consensual relationship, countering Rahul’s claim. Based on the materials placed on record, the judge said there was prima facie satisfaction that the essential elements of the offence of rape were made out.
In his bail application, Rahul had argued that the relationship was consensual and alleged that due procedure was not followed at the time of his arrest. He was taken into custody in Palakkad on January 11 and is now expected to move the sessions court for bail, with his application likely to be filed on Monday.
According to the FIR, Rahul became acquainted with the complainant, a native of Thiruvalla, through social media in April 2024. The complaint states that he approached her and developed a relationship by offering emotional support during difficulties in her married life.