Supreme Court to Hear Plea Against Anticipatory Bail for Expelled Congress MLA in Rape Case

A plea challenging the anticipatory bail granted to expelled Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil in a rape and forced abortion case has been filed in the Supreme Court. The Kerala High Court had allowed bail, finding a prima facie consensual relationship, but an appeal seeks further scrutiny.

The Supreme Court is set to hear a plea filed by a rape survivor challenging the anticipatory bail granted to expelled Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil. The Kerala High Court, on February 12, had granted the relief, citing insufficient necessity for his custodial interrogation by the prosecution.

Justice Kauser Edappagath of the Kerala High Court noted that there appeared to be a consensual relationship, which needed to be resolved during trial. The court expressed skepticism regarding the complainant's accusations, emphasizing that her actions indicated consent.

Mamkootathil, facing multiple sexual assault allegations, was restricted from contacting the complainant and witnesses, tampering with evidence, or leaving Kerala. His arrest in one of the cases lasted over two weeks before he secured regular bail.

(With inputs from agencies.)