Journalist Omar Rashid has filed a defamation suit before the Delhi High Court against a woman lawyer over social media posts that accused him of rape and forcing a woman to eat beef.
The suit, titled Omar Rashid v. X & Ors., is listed for hearing on Wednesday before Justice Sachin Datta. Rashid is seeking damages and legal action over what he has described as a “sinister campaign” against him.
Case Follows Anonymous Social Media Posts
The controversy began in May 2025 after anonymous social media posts accused Rashid, who was then working with The Wire, of serious sexual offences and alleged forced consumption of beef.
The posts also reportedly linked the allegations to communal and political themes involving Kashmir and “love jihad”.
Following the posts, Tanmay N, convenor of the Sahyadri Rights Forum, approached the National Human Rights Commission seeking an investigation. The NHRC registered a case on May 23, 2025, naming Rashid and The Wire, and directed the Delhi Police Commissioner to investigate.
NHRC Closed Case After Police Report
The Delhi Police later submitted an Action Taken Report to the NHRC, stating that no further action was required.
According to Rashid, the police report said the woman whose allegations were circulated online refused to disclose her identity and address and did not want to pursue the matter.
Rashid has also claimed that the police report identified the person behind the posts as a 34 year old practising advocate and political activist. He alleged that the person refused to cooperate with the inquiry and denied making a complaint against him.
The NHRC subsequently closed the proceedings after receiving no response to the police report.
“In view of the above facts and circumstances, the Commission is of the opinion that no further intervention is warranted in the matter. The case is closed,” the NHRC said in its order.
Rashid Alleges Personal and Professional Harm
Rashid has claimed that the social media campaign caused significant personal, professional and financial damage.
He has alleged that the posts were intended to portray him as a “communal monster” and that references to his Kashmiri Muslim identity, beef and “love jihad” were used to amplify the allegations.
He has also claimed that he received death threats, communal abuse and threats against his family following the posts. According to his account, his personal information was circulated and he received threatening calls and messages, including some from outside India.
Rashid has said he remained silent while the official proceedings were underway because he wanted the authorities to complete their inquiry.
Delhi HC to Hear Defamation Plea
The Delhi High Court had earlier directed the NHRC to conclude its proceedings after Rashid approached the court seeking a time bound decision.
The latest defamation suit seeks legal accountability over the social media allegations. The claims made by Rashid in the suit are now before the Delhi High Court and will be subject to judicial consideration.
The hearing is scheduled before Justice Sachin Datta on September 9.
