The incident follows harassment of the renowned journalist on social media platform X, prompting action from Navi Mumbai police
Team Clarion
MUMBAI – In a significant development, the Navi Mumbai police have issued notices to four out of twelve individuals accused of online abuse directed at renowned journalist Rana Ayub. The harassment, which took place on the social media platform X, prompted Ayub to file a formal complaint on November 8, leading to an investigation by the Koparkheer police.
Among those identified is a 30-year-old fashion designer, Diksha Kandpal, from Dehradun, Uttarakhand, who has been summoned to provide her statement. Kandpal visited the police station in Mumbai on Monday and admitted to sending the abusive message. A police officer confirmed the report to The Hindustan Times, stating, “The accused came to the police station and admitted that she had sent the message to the complainant.”
Rana Ayub, who resides in Navi Mumbai, shared the details of the distressing incident in her complaint. According to Ayub, she was disturbed by a phone call on the morning of November 8. Upon checking her phone records, she found several calls and WhatsApp messages from unknown numbers. It was through one of these messages that she discovered her personal contact details had been leaked on her X account. “Then I checked my handle and found that an account named ‘Hindutva Knight @Hphobiawatch’ had posted my picture with my contact number along with a message: ‘Send me some good horror movie suggestions on my WhatsApp,’” Ayub explained.
The post, which included Ayub’s photo and phone number, received numerous replies, many of which were laced with abusive and hateful language. She further revealed that the original post was taken down after the police were tagged, but another account swiftly reposted the same sensitive information.
The case has drawn attention to the rising issue of online harassment, with Ayub emphasising the growing concern over privacy violations on social media platforms. While the police have taken swift action by issuing notices to those identified, the investigation continues as they seek to address the larger issue of online abuse.
Ayub’s ordeal highlights the challenges faced by public figures, especially women, who often find themselves targets of online abuse. Despite the removal of the initial post, Ayub has made it clear that she is committed to seeking justice and will continue to fight against such harassment.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the power of social media in spreading hate and abuse, as well as the urgent need for stronger regulations to safeguard individuals’ privacy and dignity online.
