Congress Expels Kerala Leader Who Alleged 'Casting Couch', Exploitation Of Women In Party

The Kerala Congress expelled senior leader Simi Rosebell John on Sunday (1 September), shortly after she alleged that the party harbors a "casting couch" culture similar to that in the film industry.

In a formal statement, the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee announced that Simi Rosebell had been removed from the party's primary membership for publicly disrespecting female leaders.

The statement further accused Rosebell of attempting to mentally harass and defame the Congress's numerous female leaders and workers, claiming she did so in collaboration with political rivals.

In response to her expulsion, Rosebell asserted that women with self-respect and dignity find it impossible to work within the party. She challenged the party to present any evidence supporting the accusations against her, stating that no woman with pride and integrity could continue in such an environment.

Rosebell, who hails from Ernakulam, made serious accusations on Saturday, alleging that women in the party are subjected to exploitation. Speaking to a regional news outlet, she claimed that female members often face harassment as they seek advancement within the organisation.

She also accused several Congress leaders, including opposition leader VD Satheesan, of sexual harassment, arguing that women are often forced to "impress" male leaders to rise to prominent positions, circumventing the usual requirements of talent and experience.

Satheesan dismissed Rosebell's allegations as unfounded, pointing out that the party had supported her extensively, even allowing her to hold positions within the All India Congress Committee (AICC).

KPCC President K Sudhakaran stated that the Mahila Congress had filed a complaint against Rosebell and assured that the KPCC would thoroughly investigate the matter.

This controversy arises at a time when Kerala's film industry is also dealing with allegations of sexual harassment. The recent partial release of the Hema Committee report revealed alarming cases of sexual assault and intimidation faced by women in the Malayalam film industry, prompting women to come forward with their stories.