P.J. Kurien Reverses Stance on Palakkad Seat After Meeting Rahul Mamkootathil

KPCC Political Affairs Committee member P.J. Kurien has revised his earlier statement, now asserting that Rahul Mamkootathil is eligible to contest from Palakkad if the disciplinary action against him is withdrawn. Kurien stated he has no objection to lifting the suspension, questioning why the Congress should uphold a moral standard that the CPM does not. However, in his second interaction with the media, he maintained that Mamkootathil is merely suspended, despite earlier indications of his expulsion from the party following a sexual assault complaint by a young woman.

Kurien clarified his earlier position, stating, “I responded to the news channel based on the understanding that Rahul Mamkootathil was under suspension. In that context, I suggested that someone else might contest in his place, which was appropriate at the time. However, I was not explicitly asked about withdrawing Rahul Mamkootathil’s suspension or offering him candidacy.” He continued, “My opinion is that if the suspension is lifted, Rahul Mamkootathil deserves the seat. I also have an opinion on whether the suspension should be removed. Many leaders in the CPM, including those accused of similar issues, continue without suspension or action. Ask the CPM if they too lack morality on such matters.”

Kurien added that Rahul did not express any protest during their meeting in Perunna, and he believes Mamkootathil understood the position of his statement. The specific topic of their conversation, however, remains undisclosed. Earlier, Kurien had informed a television news channel that another candidate would be fielded in Palakkad instead of Mamkootathil, stating that Mamkootathil was not part of the Congress and had faced party disciplinary action. Kurien’s initial remarks had significantly jeopardized Mamkootathil’s chances of contesting again from Palakkad.

Just hours after Kurien’s interview was aired, the two leaders met at the NSS headquarters in Changanassery during the Mannam Jayanti celebrations. Mamkootathil approached Kurien, and they conversed for a few moments. Visuals of their conversation garnered significant attention on social media, leading to speculation about Kurien’s change of heart regarding Mamkootathil’s potential candidacy.