The Delhi High Court on September 9, issued summons in journalist Omar Rashid’s defamation suit concerning anonymous social media posts that accused him of rape, sexual harassment and allegedly forcing a woman to consume beef.
Justice Sachin Datta also issued notice on Rashid’s application seeking an interim injunction, or temporary protection against the publication or circulation of the allegedly defamatory material.
Background of the Case
The suit, titled Omar Rashid v. X & Ors., follows social media posts made on May 21 and 22, 2025, alleging serious sexual misconduct against Rashid, who was then associated with The Wire. The posts also alleged that he had forced a woman to eat beef.
Rashid has described the posts as part of a “sinister campaign” that caused him substantial personal, professional and financial harm. He has also claimed that references to beef, “love jihad” and Kashmir were used to give the allegations a communal and political character.
The allegations had earlier led to proceedings before the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The Commission registered a matter on May 23, 2025, following a complaint by Tanmay N., convenor of the Sahyadri Rights Forum, and directed the Delhi Police to examine the allegations.
Rashid subsequently approached the Delhi High Court seeking a time-bound decision in the NHRC proceedings. The High Court later directed the Commission to decide the pending complaint within six weeks.
The Delhi Police eventually submitted its report to the NHRC. According to the proceedings, the alleged victim had not disclosed her identity and address and did not wish to pursue the matter.
After an inquiry lasting more than 300 days, the NHRC closed the proceedings after the police found no grounds to proceed with an investigation. The Commission recorded:
“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.”
Rashid has alleged that the social media posts resulted in death threats, communal abuse and threats against him and his family. These claims form part of his case and have not been treated as findings of the High Court.
During Wednesday’s hearing, Justice Sachin Datta issued summons in the defamation proceedings and notice on Rashid’s application seeking interim injunctive relief.
The Court’s order came after counsel for Rashid emphasised the urgency of the request. Advocate Adit S. Pujari appeared for Rashid, while the suit had been filed through Advocate Shaurya Mittal.
The issuance of summons marks the commencement of the court proceedings against the defendant; it does not amount to a finding that the allegations complained of were defamatory.
The Delhi High Court has issued summons in Omar Rashid’s defamation suit and notice on his application for interim relief.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 24, 2026.
-300x169.webp)
-300x169.webp)