Model Rhiya Ahir Files Police Complaint Over Online Abuse After Shivaji Park Protest
Model Rhiya Yadav Ahir filed a police complaint on Monday following online harassment, defamation, and abusive comments targeting her after she confronted police over the alleged detention of protesters at Shivaji Park in Dadar on July 22. The 27-year-old model submitted an online complaint on Saturday and scheduled a meeting with a senior cyber cell officer on Monday to seek the registration of a First Information Report against those targeting her across social media platforms.
The harassment began almost immediately after videos showing Ahir confronting the alleged police detention of student-led protesters at Shivaji Park spread widely online. According to Ahir, abusive comments and defamatory posts intensified in the days following the incident. She alleged that several social media creators falsely portrayed her as an adult content creator, despite Instagram's community guidelines.
Speaking about the online abuse she has experienced, Ahir detailed the severity of the attacks and her concerns regarding personal safety. She noted that there had been consistent harassment, bullying, abuse, and slut-shaming directed at her on digital platforms. "Right now it is online, but it can grow into something much larger," Ahir said. "I don't want my parents to be affected by this."
Addressing the targeting, Ahir emphasized her intention to hold those accountable for the defamatory content. "We all know who these people are. I will identify each one of them," she stated, adding that while people have the right to express opinions, nobody has the right to degrade or malign anyone. She remarked that while gaining a platform brings appreciation from many, it also attracts individuals who speak against a person.
Ahir also commented on the broader nature of the student-led movement that led to the confrontation at Shivaji Park. She asserted that the movement focused on what is right rather than aligning with any single political party, religion, or individual. "I will continue to take a stand against everything that is wrong. Don't be scared and keep at it," she added.
Following the submission of Ahir's complaint to the police, further official details and updates regarding the cyber cell investigation remain awaited.
