Rahul suspended out of respect for women, wasn't forced to quit as YC prez: KPCC Chief

Palakkad: KPCC Chief Sunny Joseph on Monday said Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil had set an example by stepping down as Youth Congress president when complaints were raised against him. “The party has not received any formal complaint, and no police case has been registered. Hence, demands for his resignation as MLA are baseless. Political parties in Kerala do not have a history of doing so. Nevertheless, the party leadership took a unanimous decision to suspend him in honour to protect the complainant's self-respect, honour and safety," he said.

He added that several leaders continue in their posts despite facing criminal cases and charge sheets. “I do not wish to name them, but the party is clear about the ulterior motives behind the push for Rahul’s resignation,” he said. The party leadership, including myself, the Opposition leader, working committee members, and other senior leaders, discussed the matter before we unanimously decided to suspend Rahul, considering the seriousness of the allegations,” the KPCC chief added.

Earlier in the day, KPCC Disciplinary Panel Chairman Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan told Onmanorama that a meeting was held on Sunday to discuss the course of action. "It has been decided to suspend Rahul Mamkootathil from the party. The leadership has already made it clear that appropriate action will be taken against him. This is the first step," Thiruvanchoor said.

Meanwhile, UDF convenor Adoor Prakash said those who dreamt of Rahul's resignation will be disappointed. "I am not saying he has not made any mistakes. But the claims should be proved," he added.

Rahul resigned as Youth Congress state president on Thursday following allegations of misconduct from multiple women. Malayalam actor Rini Ann George had earlier accused an unnamed political leader of sending her offensive messages. Soon after, writer Honey Bhaskaran publicly named Rahul in a Facebook post, alleging he had repeatedly sent her unsolicited messages. She said while the initial exchanges were casual, he persisted, and she eventually cut off contact.