In a strong statement on Monday, Left Democratic Front (LDF) convener T.P. Ramakrishnan highlighted the profound concern within his party regarding the continued presence of Congress legislator Rahul Mamkootathil in office. Ramakrishnan emphasized that Mamkootathil’s ongoing tenure, despite numerous allegations of sexually predatory behavior towards women, could deeply traumatize alleged victims and create a significant barrier, discouraging them from pursuing justice.
During a press conference, Mr. Ramakrishnan clarified that the ruling LDF would not actively prevent Mr. Mamkootathil’s attendance in the Kerala Assembly. He asserted that “Mamkootathil is solely Congress’ liability and merited no discussion in the LDF,” underscoring the LDF’s position that the issue primarily falls within the Congress party’s responsibility.
Ramakrishnan further explained that as the Palakkad MLA, Mr. Mamkootathil maintains a technical and constitutional right to his seat in the House. This right, he noted, has been acknowledged by Speaker A.N. Shamseer, who has allotted Mamkootathil a separate bloc after his disbarment from the Congress Legislative Party (CLP).
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While the LDF confirmed its commitment to upholding legal principles and would not attempt to obstruct Mr. Mamkootathil’s attendance, Ramakrishnan argued that the situation raises broader ethical, political, and societal concerns that extend far beyond mere constitutional technicalities.
He challenged the Congress party and its allies, stating they have a moral imperative to clarify the message they are sending to society, especially to women and alleged victims. By “tacitly” allowing an accused serial sex offender to wield the political influence of an elected office, seemingly without remorse, the Opposition risks normalizing such behavior.
Ramakrishnan observed a clear division within the Congress leadership concerning the “Mamkootathil issue.” He pointed out that while several leaders, including prominent women, have publicly demanded his resignation as Palakkad MLA and subsequently faced severe online harassment, others have hesitated, emphasizing his constitutional right to remain in the Assembly.
According to Mr. Ramakrishnan, Mamkootathil’s decision to attend the Assembly despite the allegations constitutes a direct challenge to the public. He predicted that “it is only natural that society will rise in protest.”
In other news, Mr. Ramakrishnan refuted allegations of widespread police brutality and corruption, characterizing them as isolated incidents “cherry-picked” by the UDF to criticize the government. He also affirmed the LDF’s commitment to preventing any attempts to disenfranchise Kerala voters under the guise of the Special Intensive Revision of the voters’ list.
The LDF meeting concluded with a decision to organize candlelight vigils and evening gatherings on September 23 to protest Israel’s recent attack on Qatar. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan was present at the meeting.