Kerala Court Allows In-Camera Hearing in MLA Rahul Mamkootathil’s Bail Plea

The Judicial First Class Magistrate Court, Thiruvalla, has allowed an in-camera hearing in the bail application of Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, who has been arrested in connection with a rape allegation. The order was passed considering the sensitive nature of the allegations.

This is the third rape complaint against the MLA. While he has been granted anticipatory bail in the second case, the first case is pending before the Kerala High Court with interim protection from arrest.

The State has also moved the High Court seeking cancellation of bail in the second case.

The matter highlights the judiciary’s approach towards privacy of victims, especially in sexual offence cases, while balancing the accused’s right to seek bail.