Model-actor Rini Ann George accuses a youth political leader of sending obscene messages; Rahul Mamkootathil steps down pending internal probe.
Key Highlights
- Kerala MLA Rahul Mamkootathil resigns from Youth Congress post.
- Actor Rini Ann George alleges harassment through social media over 3 years.
- BJP demands accountability; protests erupt outside the MLA’s office.
- No official police complaint filed; actor cites safety concerns.
Allegations Spark Political Storm
Malayalam actor and model Rini Ann George has alleged that a youth leader of a major political party had been harassing her online for the past three years. According to her, the unnamed politician sent her inappropriate messages and even invited her to a five-star hotel.
While she didn’t reveal the name in her interview, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Kerala identified Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil and held protests demanding his resignation. Responding to the controversy, Mamkootathil stepped down from his position as Youth Congress president.
Actor Speaks Out in Viral Interview
In a widely shared online interview, Rini Ann George claimed the harassment began after connecting with the politician via social media. She said the messages gradually became indecent and that the leader made repeated advances, including an invitation to a hotel room.
“I received objectionable messages from him for three years. When I warned him that I would complain to senior party leaders, he told me to go ahead, saying, ‘Who cares?’” she said.
Alleged Inaction from Party Leaders
The actor further claimed that despite raising concerns with senior leaders of the party, no action was taken. In fact, the accused politician allegedly continued to be promoted to higher positions.
“The image I had of the party has been shattered. Even after I warned them, they gave him more power,” she said. The actor also noted that the leader had belittled the #MeToo movement, questioning what happened to previous cases.
No Official Complaint Filed
Although the actor has not filed a formal police complaint, she stated that her primary motivation for speaking out was to support other women who may have faced similar harassment from the same individual.
“I haven’t suffered physical assault, but many others have. I’m speaking out for them,” she said. She also mentioned safety concerns and a lack of faith in the justice system as reasons for not pursuing legal action.
Political Fallout and Protests
Following the interview’s circulation, BJP workers staged protests outside Rahul Mamkootathil’s office in Palakkad, leading to confrontations with the police. The party demanded his resignation and called for an independent inquiry.
Mamkootathil, while denying all allegations, stated, “I challenge the complainant to prove the charges in a court of law. No official complaint has been filed against me.”
Opposition Leader V D Satheesan said the Congress party was taking the matter seriously and would act accordingly.
While no formal legal case has been filed, the viral interview and the resignation have stirred significant debate in Kerala’s political and public space. The incident once again highlights the importance of addressing harassment allegations sensitively and transparently—both within political parties and in broader society.
