Overview The Principal Sessions Court in Thiruvananthapuram is scheduled to hear the anticipatory bail plea of Rahul Mamkootathil , a Palakkad MLA, on December 3, 2025 . He is facing serious charges of rape and coerced termination of pregnancy. The case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of digital evidence and the invocation of relevant legal provisions. Key Developments Bail Application and MLA's Defense Mr. Mamkootathil has submitted digital evidence through his counsel, arguing that he is a victim of a political conspiracy. He contends that his relationship with the complainant, a woman acquaintance, was consensual. This defense strategy hinges on the admissibility and interpretation of electronic records. Police Investigation and Evidence Evidence Collection: The police have taken custody of the complainant’s mobile phone and other digital devices. Section 65B Certification: Provisions of the Indian Evidence Act have been invoked, and a 65B certification obtained to ensure the admissibility of electronic records, including audio clips, video footage, and text messages. Cyberforensic Analysis: The police are likely to seek court permission to subject the devices to cyberforensic analysis to verify the integrity and evidentiary value of the data. Additional Charges and Investigation The investigation also includes charges related to obtaining medicines causing miscarriage without a prescription. The police allege that Mr. Mamkootathil employed an acquaintance, Joby Joseph , to deliver the pills to the victim and coerced her to take them while monitoring via video call. Joby Joseph , a businessperson in Pathanamthitta, has been named as the second accused in the case. Legal Provisions Invoked The potential charges against both Mr. Mamkootathil and Mr. Joseph include violations of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and provisions of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act , which protects the reproductive rights of women, including those outside conventional marriage. MLA's Contention and Current Status In his bail application, Mr. Mamkootathil denies the charges, claiming the woman was married and consumed abortion pills of her own volition. He has been unavailable on the phone since the woman lodged her complaint with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan . Despite reports, his lawyers deny he is absconding. Lookout Notice The police have moved the Bureau of Immigration to issue a lookout notice for Mr. Mamkootathil to prevent him from leaving the country. UPSC Relevance GS2: Polity and Governance This case is relevant to the study of the criminal justice system, the role of law enforcement, and the protection of individual rights. The invocation of the Indian Evidence Act and the use of electronic evidence are particularly important. GS2: Social Justice The case touches upon issues of women's reproductive rights and the application of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act . It also raises questions about social justice and gender equality. GS3: Science and Technology The use of cyberforensic analysis and the admissibility of electronic records under the Indian Evidence Act are relevant to the application of technology in law enforcement and the judicial process. Important Facts Court Hearing: Anticipatory bail plea hearing on December 3, 2025 . Accusations: Rape and coerced termination of pregnancy. Key Legislation: Indian Evidence Act , Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act , Drugs and Cosmetics Act . Second Accused: Joby Joseph . Preventive Measure: Lookout notice issued.