The Delhi High Court has issued summons in a defamation suit filed by journalist Omar Rashid against a lawyer who allegedly made social media posts accusing him of sexual harassment, rape and forcibly making her consume beef.
Justice Sachin Datta issued summons in Rashid’s suit against Vertika Mani Tripathi and others. The Court also issued notice on Rashid’s application seeking an interim injunction, after his counsel emphasised the urgency of the matter.
The controversy dates back to 2025, when an anonymous woman posted allegations against Rashid on social media. The allegations included serious accusations of rape, sexual harassment and forcibly feeding her beef. The posts subsequently resulted in proceedings before the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
The NHRC had registered a case in May 2025 following a complaint by one Tanmay N. of the Sahyadri Rights Forum, naming Rashid and The Wire, where Rashid was then working. The Delhi Police was directed to inquire into the allegations. According to the subsequent police report, the alleged victim had declined to disclose her identity and address and did not wish to pursue the matter.
After an inquiry extending for more than 300 days, the Delhi Police concluded that no further action was required. The NHRC eventually closed the proceedings in March 2026, holding that no further intervention was warranted.
Rashid has now approached the Delhi High Court with the present defamation action, seeking relief against the allegedly defamatory social media publications. The Court issued summons and directed the defendants to file their written statements within 30 days of receiving summons. It also directed that replies to the interim applications be filed within two weeks, taking note of the urgency urged by Rashid’s counsel. The matter has been listed for September 24, 2026.
