Model who thwarted detention of protesters alleges online harassment
Model Rhiya Yadav has filed a complaint with the Maharashtra Police cyber cell, alleging severe online harassment and defamation following her involvement in a protest. She denies claims that she sells pornographic content, stating that her online presence has been maliciously misrepresented.
Why it matters
Illustrates the growing issue of digital harassment and the weaponization of misinformation against individuals involved in public activism.
Rhiya Yadav, the 27-year-old model who halted a police van packed with protesters at Shivaji Park last week, morphing into a symbol of resistance on social media, has approached the cyber cell of Maharashtra Police, alleging sustained online harassment, bullying and defamation.The model, also known as Rhiya Ahir, told HT that she submitted an online complaint to the police on Saturday and would meet a senior cyber cell officer on Monday, seeking registration of a first information report (FIR) against those targeting her via social media.“There has been consistent harassment, bullying, abuse and slut-shaming (since the July 22 incident). Right now it is online, but it can grow into something much larger. I don’t want my parents to be affected by this,” Yadav told HT.Referring to the July 22 incident, she said, “I stood up for citizens and spoke against what I believed was wrong.
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