Mukesh need not resign as MLA: Kerala CPI(M)

Thiruvananthapuram: On Saturday, the ruling CPM dismissed the calls for the resignation of its MLA and actor M Mukesh, who has been charged with rape and assault based on complaints lodged by actresses from the Malayalam film industry.

The CPM's response emerges as a section of CPI leaders, the opposition Congress, and women from various fields are calling for Mukesh's resignation.

Following the CPM state committee meeting, party state secretary M V Govindan stated that Mukesh's resignation from the assembly on moral grounds was necessary. "Currently, he is only facing allegations. If he is acquitted tomorrow, there is no provision to reinstate him as an MLA on moral grounds. Therefore, he should undergo the investigation, and if found guilty, appropriate action will be taken," he said.

He stated that the state government has firmly supported the victims, as demonstrated by the case filed against an MLA from the ruling party.

What was the stance of the Central Government regarding cases of sexual harassment involving female wrestlers and women in Manipur? he asked.

Govindan stated that a National Election Watch report indicates that in India, 16 MPs and 135 MLAs are accused of sexual harassment and are facing charges. Among them, the BJP has 54, Congress 23, TDP 17, and AAP 13. None have resigned from their elected positions.

In Kerala, the late Oommen Chandy, P K Kunhalikutty, A P Anil Kumar, Hibi Eden, and Shashi Tharoor were accused of sexual harassment. However, none of these leaders have resigned. He mentioned that ministers have resigned because they held executive positions.

The CPM leader alleged that a politically motivated campaign has been launched against the MLA.