Mumbai-based model Rhiya Ahir has filed a police complaint, alleging that she has been targeted by an online hate campaign after her video from the NEET protest at Shivaji Park went viral.
In her complaint, the 27-year-old claimed that social media users have been circulating edited photographs and old posts from her modelling career to defame her. She also alleged that abusive content has targeted both her and her family.
Following the complaint, Ahir said police officials contacted her, and she is expected to meet Maharashtra Cyber Cell authorities for further investigation.
Ahir became widely known after she stood in front of a Mumbai Police van carrying detained protesters during the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) demonstration over the alleged NEET paper leak. The viral video showed her refusing to move until the vehicle stopped.
Speaking earlier about the incident, Ahir said she acted after seeing several protesters, including women, packed inside the police van. She claimed she tried to help a woman leave the vehicle but was stopped by police. She then stood in front of the van and demanded the protesters’ release.
Ahir said her actions were spontaneous and not planned. She added that she never expected the incident to make her one of the most recognised faces of the protest movement.