Wed Jan 14 07:51:45 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Kerala Speaker Addresses Disqualification Requests for Rape-Accused MLA

The Story:

Kerala Assembly Speaker A.N. Shamseer stated on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, that complaints seeking the disqualification of Rahul Mamkootathil, the MLA representing Palakkad constituency, who was arrested on rape charges on Sunday, can be referred to the Committee on Privileges and Ethics only if another MLA lodges such a complaint. While acknowledging the receipt of numerous private complaints, he clarified that these cannot be directly addressed by the committee. He also cautioned against generalizing the issue to negatively portray the entire Assembly.

Key Points:

  • Kerala Speaker A.N. Shamseer addressed the issue of complaints seeking the disqualification of rape-accused MLA Rahul Mamkootathil.
  • Rahul Mamkootathil, representing Palakkad, was arrested on rape charges on Sunday.
  • The Speaker stated that the Committee on Privileges and Ethics can only act on complaints lodged by an MLA.
  • The Assembly has received several private complaints, which cannot be processed directly.
  • Mr. Shamseer emphasized the need for careful consideration and cautioned against using the allegations to negatively represent the entire Assembly.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Kerala Assembly is navigating a sensitive situation involving a sitting MLA accused of rape.
  • The Speaker’s statement clarifies the procedural requirements for initiating disqualification proceedings.
  • The case highlights the importance of ethical conduct and public perception of elected officials.
  • The process underscores the internal mechanisms available to address ethical violations within the Assembly.

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