In a dramatic political development, Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil resigned from his post as Kerala Youth Congress president on Thursday following harassment accusations leveled by Malayalam actress Rini Ann George.

In his resignation statement, Mamkootathil denied all wrongdoing but said he was stepping down to prevent party members from being forced to defend him. “Has any legal complaint been lodged against me? The woman who made the statement hasn’t identified me by name. She’s my friend. Are there any complaints against me at police stations across the state? Party workers shouldn’t have to stand up for me. This is why I’m stepping down as state Youth Congress president. The party hasn’t requested my resignation,” he clarified, asserting that he would pursue legal action if formal complaints are filed.

While Rini did not explicitly name Mamkootathil, the BJP claimed the actress’s statements referred to the Palakkad MLA, alleging that he had repeatedly sent her inappropriate messages and invited her to his hotel room. Following these accusations, writer Honey Bhaskaran also came forward, claiming that Mamkootathil had contacted her via social media with similar messages.

The BJP organized a march to Mamkootathil’s Palakkad office, demanding his immediate resignation, escalating the political heat surrounding the case.

Responding to the controversy, Congress Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan stated that the party would investigate the matter thoroughly. “The party will examine these accusations and assess their seriousness. If they prove to be grave, we will take appropriate action. There’s a process—he’ll have the chance to present his defense. Only then will we decide. We’ll make a prompt decision without delay. Currently, no formal complaints have been brought to the party. If allegations are made, we will investigate seriously and take proper action without showing any leniency,” Satheesan said.