രാഹുലിന്‍റെ അറസ്റ്റില്‍ നടപടി ക്രമം പാലിച്ചില്ല; പരാതിക്കാരി മൊഴി നല്‍കാന്‍ വൈകി; കോടതി

The Pathanamthitta Sessions Court has granted bail to Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil in a rape case, making several critical observations regarding the police investigation and arrest procedure. In its order on January 28, 2026, the court noted that the mandatory legal procedures were not followed during Rahul’s arrest on January 11. The judge highlighted a significant delay in the complainant filing her statement and pointed out the absence of direct witnesses to corroborate the allegations. Furthermore, the court questioned how the accused could intimidate the complainant, who is currently residing abroad. Regarding the SIT’s plea for further custody, the court stated that such measures were unnecessary at this stage. The defense had consistently argued that the relationship was consensual, presenting digital evidence like WhatsApp chats to support their claim. Following 18 days of judicial custody in Mavelikkara sub-jail, the MLA is expected to be released today. The court’s findings have put the Kerala police in a defensive position concerning their handling of the high-profile case.