Pathanamthitta cyber police made a significant arrest on Friday. They took Mahila Congress leader Ranjitha Pulikkan into custody from a relative's house in Kottayam. The arrest centers on serious allegations of defaming a survivor in a high-profile rape case.
Charges Stem from Social Media Posts
Police officials confirmed the charges against Ranjitha Pulikkan. She allegedly posted derogatory comments about the complainant on Facebook. These comments targeted the survivor in the third rape case against Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil. The cyber police registered a formal case based on this social media activity.
Non-Bailable Cases Filed
Authorities have slapped two non-bailable cases on the Congress leader. This legal action underscores the severity of the defamation charges. The arrest followed a thorough investigation by the cyber police unit.
Previous Legal History with Cyber Police
This is not the first time Ranjitha Pulikkan has faced legal trouble for her online statements. When the initial case against MLA Rahul Mamkootathil emerged, she posted content in his support. Those earlier posts also targeted the complainant. The cyber police filed a case for that previous incident as well.
A Thiruvananthapuram court granted her bail in the earlier matter. The bail came with specific conditions attached. However, the latest arrest indicates a continuation of problematic online behavior.
Congress Distances Itself
District office-bearers of the Congress party made an important clarification. They stated that Ranjitha Pulikkan was already expelled from the Mahila Congress. This expulsion likely occurred before the recent arrest. The party's statement aims to distance the organization from her actions.
Parallel Developments in MLA's Case
Meanwhile, related legal proceedings continue for MLA Rahul Mamkootathil. He remains in judicial custody following his remand. A bail application hearing for the MLA concluded on Friday in the Thiruvalla judicial first class magistrate court.
The court held this hearing in-camera, meaning behind closed doors. Both the prosecution and the defense supported this private hearing format. Advocate Sasthamangalam Ajith represented Mamkootathil during the proceedings.
Magistrates will announce their verdict on the MLA's bail application on Saturday. This decision will determine whether Mamkootathil can secure temporary release while his case continues.
The arrest of Ranjitha Pulikkan highlights growing concerns about online defamation. It also shows how cyber police actively monitor and act against social media content that targets crime survivors. Legal experts note that such cases set important precedents for digital behavior.
