Kochi-based lawyer Shinto Sebastian, who first brought the issue to light, said many victims remain silent for fear of online attacks from Congress supporters, and urged authorities to ensure a safe environment for complainants.
Published Sep 01, 2025 | 6:43 PM ⚊ Updated Sep 01, 2025 | 6:43 PM
Mamkootathil continues to face calls from the CPI(M) and the BJP to step down as an MLA.
Synopsis: The Special Investigation Team in Kerala probing the allegations of sexual misconduct against Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil has received 15 complaints, though none have come directly from the alleged victims. Investigators have recorded the statement of lawyer Shinto Sebastian, who submitted video and audio materials and urged authorities to ensure a safe atmosphere for women to come forward. Meanwhile, CPI(M) leader G Sreena Devi Kunjamma dismissed claims linking her to the case as fabricated.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) in Kerala probing sexual misconduct allegations against Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil has so far received 15 complaints, though none from direct victims, according to the Kerala Police Crime Branch.
Last week, a Zero-FIR was registered under sections 78(2) (stalking a woman) and 351 (criminal intimidation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with Section 120(O) of the Kerala Police Act (causing annoyance through any means of communication).
On Monday, 1 September, the SIT recorded the statement of Kochi-based lawyer Shinto Sebastian, who first brought the issue to light by filing a complaint with Ernakulam Central Police.
He submitted six video links and an audio clip purportedly featuring the MLA pressuring a woman to terminate her pregnancy, and also referred to a petition before the Child Rights Commission.
Sebastian told reporters that many victims remain silent, fearing online attacks from Congress supporters, and urged authorities to ensure a safe atmosphere for complainants.
“A safe atmosphere should be created so that affected women can directly approach authorities without fear. Only then can an offender like Mamkootathil be prevented from attending the Assembly,” he added.
Mamkootathil, who resigned as State Youth Congress president following the allegations, was later suspended from the party, but continues to face calls from the CPI(M) and the BJP to step down as an MLA.
The Crime Branch has summoned Shinto Sebastian for questioning at its Thiruvananthapuram office and is preparing for a detailed probe. Rahul Mamkootathil’s financial transactions will be examined, and statements from journalists will be recorded.
The team will also question four women journalists. The move follows allegations that Rahul pressured a woman to undergo an abortion.
Investigators plan to record the statement of the woman allegedly pressured into an abortion, though she has not yet filed a direct complaint.
Meanwhile, the SIT probing the sexual harassment allegations is expected to act swiftly. Statements will also be taken from those who publicly raised accusations against the MLA, including actor and former journalist Rini Ann George and trans woman Avanthika.
Amid mounting pressure in the Rahul Mamkootathil controversy, CPI(M) leader G Sreena Devi Kunjamma has come forward to clarify her stance.
Kunjamma, a district panchayat member from Adoor, Rahul’s hometown, strongly refuted attempts to portray her as a victim of the MLA’s alleged misconduct.
She recounted a recent phone conversation with a well-known female journalist and alleged that fabricated claims were being circulated about her.
“A few days ago, a prominent journalist called me, asking about rumours that I had faced some unfortunate incident involving Rahul Mamkootathil and that I had lodged a complaint,” she said.
“In reality, I have filed no such complaint. It is irresponsible journalism to approach someone based solely on hearsay. The police should consider taking action against the channel for undermining women’s dignity.”
She continued: “Fabricating victims for TRP gains is unacceptable. I strongly suspect there is a conspiracy behind these reports. The Crime Branch must investigate this seriously, as it is deplorable to malign innocent individuals based on mere rumours.”
Meanwhile, Malayalam actor Rini Ann George, one of the first to speak out against MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, has voiced her support for the young woman accusing him.
In an emotional message on Instagram, Rini urged the survivor to be brave and not feel isolated, saying the shame lies with the predator, not the victim.
Her post comes amid growing public attention and ongoing investigations into the allegations.
(Edited by Dese Gowda)
