Rape case: Kerala MLA Rahul Mamkootathil’s bail plea rejected, to remain in jail

The Judicial First Class Magistrate Court in Thiruvalla on Saturday (January 17, 2026) denied bail to Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil in connection with the case over alleged rape of an NRI woman. With this, he will continue in jail under remand.

Judge Arundhathi Dileep dismissed the bail application following a detailed hearing conducted on the previous day. In his bail plea, the MLA had claimed that his relationship with the woman was consensual. He also contended that proper procedures were not followed during his arrest.

At the request of the Assistant Public Prosecutor, the proceedings were held in-camera to ensure confidentiality. Mr. Mamkootathil, who was arrested from Palakkad on January 11, is now expected to approach the sessions court for bail. The application is scheduled to be filed on Monday.

According to the complaint, the accused reportedly established contact with the complainant, a native of Thiruvalla, through social media at a time when she was facing personal difficulties in her marital life. It is alleged that during their first meeting, he brutally assaulted her in a hotel room.

The legislator has two other rape cases pending against him.