Malayalam actor Rini Ann George has ignited a political storm in Kerala after accusing a young politician of sending offensive messages and engaging in harassment. While the actor has refrained from naming the individual or his political affiliation, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has targeted the Congress party, alleging that the accused is Rahul Mamkootathil, a Congress MLA from Palakkad and the Youth Congress state president.

George made the accusations in a recent online interview that quickly went viral. She stated that the inappropriate behavior began approximately three years ago after connecting with the politician on social media. According to George, the leader sent her objectionable messages and invited her to a five-star hotel. She also claimed that when she threatened to inform his party about his actions, he dismissed her concerns.

The actor expressed disappointment with the lack of action taken by the political party's leadership despite her complaints. She stated that the leader continued to receive prominent positions within the party even after she alerted senior officials. George also revealed that she learned that other women, including wives and daughters of politicians, had faced similar experiences with the same individual.

Following George's revelations, the BJP launched protests demanding Rahul Mamkootathil's resignation. Protesters marched towards his office in Palakkad. The BJP has accused the Congress party of shielding the leader.

In response to the allegations, the Congress leadership has reportedly requested a report on the matter. Rahul Mamkootathil has not yet responded to the claims.

Adding to the controversy, writer Honey Bhaskaran has also come forward with allegations against Rahul Mamkootathil. Bhaskaran claimed that he had sent her obscene messages in the past, which she ignored. She further alleged that she later learned that he had told his Congress colleagues that she was interested in him.

George explained her decision to go public, stating that she was motivated by the realization that many other women have faced similar issues and have remained silent. She emphasized that she is speaking out for all those women who have been affected. George clarified that she did not suffer any assault but received offensive messages. She learned about the harassment faced by other women through her friends and decided to raise her voice.

The accusations against the unnamed politician and the subsequent targeting of Rahul Mamkootathil have created a stir in Kerala's political landscape. The issue has gained traction on social media, with many expressing their opinions and demanding action. The controversy has also put the Congress party on the defensive, with the BJP seizing the opportunity to attack its political rival.

This incident occurs against the backdrop of increased scrutiny of the Malayalam film industry and its treatment of women. Allegations of sexual harassment against directors and actors have surfaced following revelations in the Justice K Hema Committee report, which exposed instances of exploitation of women in the industry.