Overview

• The Palakkad MLA stepped down as state Youth Congress president, saying he did nothing illegal and that party workers should not have to defend him.
• A trans woman identified as Avanthika alleged he sent sexually aggressive messages including a reference to a rape fantasy, adding to earlier accounts by actor Rini Ann George and writer Honey Bhaskaran.
• A Malayalam TV channel aired a purported audio clip and sexually coloured chats linked to the MLA; he questioned the clip’s authenticity and said he would respond in court if any formal case is filed.
• Congress leader V. D. Satheesan said the party will examine the accusations under procedure and take action if warranted, noting that no formal complaint had been received.
• BJP and CPI(M)/DYFI activists held protests demanding he vacate his MLA seat, while Mamkootathil said party leaders did not ask him to resign and described the actress as a friend.