Rahul Mamkootathil returns to Palakkad amid controversies, reopens MLA office

Palakkad: Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil returned to his constituency on Wednesday. This is his first visit to Palakkad since being expelled from the Congress Parliamentary Party over allegations of sexual harassment and resigning as state president of the Youth Congress. Though he briefly attended one day of the Assembly session, he has been staying at his native place in Adoor ever since the controversy erupted.

Ahead of his arrival, his MLA office in Palakkad was reopened early in the morning, with Congress workers gathering to welcome him. Police have stepped up security in the area. There is anticipation over whether the CPM and BJP will stage protests as Mamkootathil resumes public engagements. CPM state secretary M V Govindan had earlier clarified that his party would not obstruct his return.

On Tuesday, UDF Palakkad district chairman Marakkar Marayamangalam announced that Mamkootathil would be back, ending what he described as a leadership vacuum in the constituency. He maintained that the controversies would not sway voters or affect the upcoming elections, noting that the issue had not gained ground among the public.

Mamkootathil last visited Palakkad on August 17. Though he was expected to return on Saturday, the visit was reportedly delayed due to the presence of Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in Kerala. In recent days, Opposition Leader V D Satheesan visited the district, and a drug-abuse awareness rally led by Ramesh Chennithala was held in Palakkad. Mamkootathil’s return came soon after.