THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the sexual harassment case against Kovalam MLA M Vincent is believed to have sought Speaker Sreeramakrishnan’s nod to question him. The Speaker’s permission is required since the accused is a legislator.
Sections relating to rape and stalking have been added to the charges filed against Vincent after the victim was subjected to a a medical examination at the Government General hospital, Neyyattinkara.
Investigators said Vincent will be grilled only after getting the Speaker’s nod.
“The victim’s statement has been recorded. The gathering of evidence is still progressing. Since the accused is a legislator, we need to unearth more evidence against him before preparing the questionnaire. Further action, including arrest, will be taken later,” an investigator said.
The police team will also take the victim to her residence on RC street near Balaramapuram - the purported scene of the crime - to prepare the mahsar. The case is being investigated by a team led by Kollam City Police Commissioner S Ajeetha Begum.
Charges against MLA serious: CPM
T’Puram: Allegations against M Vincent MLA are serious in nature, said CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. Responding to questions, he said an impartial probe should be carried out into the matter as per the provisions of harassment against women.