In Kerala, Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil is facing a wave of accusations, including a particularly serious allegation from a trans woman, Avanthika, who claims he expressed a desire to rape her. These allegations are surfacing amidst existing claims of inappropriate behavior, sexting, and obscene conduct against the politician.

Avanthika, who is also a BJP leader and social activist, stated that Rahul Mamkootathil contacted her initially through Messenger and obtained her phone number. Subsequently, he allegedly messaged her on Telegram, where messages are designed to disappear after being read. According to Avanthika, Rahul expressed that he wanted to "rape" her and suggested they meet in Bengaluru or Hyderabad. She has characterized him as a "sexual predator" and said that he "opened up about his rape fantasy". Avanthika also mentioned informing some Congress leaders and friends about Rahul's behavior but did not reveal these matters earlier due to safety concerns, being a public servant and MLA. She claims she spoke out after actress Rini Ann George made her allegations public.

These accusations follow claims from Malayalam actress Rini Ann George, who stated that a young politician had sent her inappropriate text messages and invited her to spend time with him three years ago. She said that when she threatened to complain, he allegedly showed a "who cares?" attitude. Rini Ann George has close ties with a leader of the opposition, V.D. Satheesan, who considers Rini as his daughter. She claims to have informed Congress leadership about the harassment from the "young leader" well before going public, but no action was taken.

Adding to the controversy, Malayalam writer Honey Bhaskaran has also accused Rahul Mamkootathil of making derogatory remarks about her to his peers after initiating a conversation with her on Instagram. Honey alleged that Rahul would demean women in front of his colleagues and tell them sexually colored stories about the victims.

Rahul Mamkootathil has resigned from his position as the state Youth Congress president amidst these allegations but maintains his position as an MLA. He denies any wrongdoing. At a press conference at his home in Adoor, Rahul stated that he has not violated any laws or the Constitution and that there are no formal complaints against him. However, the accusations have led to increasing pressure on the Congress leadership to seek his resignation from the legislative assembly as well.

The situation has become a significant issue for the Congress party in Kerala and a setback, especially for opposition leader V.D. Satheesan. The allegations have also highlighted internal divisions within the party, particularly within the Youth Congress.