In a significant development, the Kerala High Court has prolonged the interim protection from arrest granted to former Congress legislator H. Salam Mamkootathil. The expelled MLA is facing serious allegations of sexual assault and forced abortion.
Legal Shield Extended for Expelled Legislator
The court's decision provides continued legal relief to Mamkootathil, who had previously gone into hiding. This move followed the registration of a police case against him. The initial interim relief was granted by the High Court on December 6, 2025, which prompted his return to public view.
The case, which has sent shockwaves through Kerala's political circles, involves grave charges under the Indian Penal Code. The allegations have led to his expulsion from the Indian National Congress, severing his formal ties with the party.
Chronology of the Case and Court Intervention
The sequence of events began when the Kerala police formally registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the former legislator. The charges are severe, encompassing sexual assault and accusations of forcing an abortion.
Fearing immediate arrest, Mamkootathil chose to abscond. His period in hiding ended only after the Kerala High Court stepped in on December 6, offering him temporary protection. The latest court order, reported on December 18, 2025, extends this safeguard, preventing law enforcement from taking him into custody for the time being.
Political Repercussions and Future Proceedings
The fallout has been swift and decisive on the political front. The Congress party, aiming to distance itself from the scandal, took the stern step of expelling Mamkootathil from its ranks. This action underscores the party's attempt to manage the reputational damage caused by the allegations against one of its members.
Legal experts suggest the extension of interim protection is a procedural step, allowing the accused time to present his side and seek regular bail. The prosecution is expected to present its evidence and arguments in subsequent hearings. The case highlights the judiciary's role in balancing the rights of an accused with the necessity of a thorough investigation.
As the legal process unfolds, all eyes remain on the Kerala High Court for its future directives. The court's final decision on anticipatory bail or surrender will determine the next phase of this high-profile case.
