Mary Kom Faces Defamation Case Over Alleged Smear Campaign
Mary Kom's ex-husband has filed a defamation complaint in Delhi, alleging character assassination and smear campaigns regarding his reputation.
Legendary Indian boxer Mary Kom is facing legal action following a defamation complaint filed by her ex-husband, Karong Onkholer. His legal counsel has accused the sporting icon of engaging in a targeted smear campaign that amounts to character assassination.
Legal Action in Delhi Court
The complaint was filed before the Saket Court in Delhi and is currently pending before the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Shivam Gupta. The legal proceedings are scheduled to move forward on November 19, when the court is expected to record pre-summoning evidence and examine witnesses.
Advocate Akash Krishna, representing Onkholer, stated that the petition has been filed under Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). He emphasized that the legal action was necessary due to the public nature of the allegations made by the boxer.
Allegations of Character Assassination
The crux of the complaint centers on various public appearances and television interviews where Mary Kom allegedly made malicious statements. According to the complainant, these statements were intended to harm his reputation and portray him in a negative light to a massive audience.
The legal filings highlight several specific grievances raised by Onkholer, including:
- Financial Misconduct: Allegations that he misappropriated funds from her bank accounts.
- Employment Status: Claims that he has no career and has never been gainfully employed, which the complainant disputes by stating he sacrificed his own professional pursuits to support her career.
- Personal Conduct: Portrayals of him as being dishonest, unfaithful, and dependent on alcohol.
- Parental Responsibility: Allegations that he abandoned his responsibilities toward his children.
The Impact of Media Statements
The complainant alleges that during a television interview broadcast to millions, Mary Kom made these statements with full knowledge that they would damage his standing in society. As an internationally renowned boxing champion and public figure, Kom’s words carry significant weight, which the complainant argues has been weaponized against him.
The marriage between Mary Kom and Karong Onkholer, which began on March 12, 2005, was reportedly dissolved through customary practice on December 20, 2023. While the matter is now sub judice, the legal battle marks a significant personal and public confrontation for the boxing legend.