India: Journalist harassed with rape and death threats

Investigative journalist Rana Ayyub received over 200 rape and death threats in the days following November 8, after her number was leaked by a right-wing content creator on social platform X. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) joins its affiliate, the Indian Journalists Union (IJU), in strongly condemning the targeted online harassment, and calling on Maharashtra state authorities to hold those responsible to account.

Journalist Rana Ayyub received over 200 explicit and abusive messages and phone calls after her phone number was leaked on social media on November 8. Credit: X

On November 8, the phone number of investigative journalist Rana Ayyub was leaked on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, by a user operating under the display name 'Hindutva Knight' and handle 'HPhobiaWatch'. The journalist reported that following the leak she received over 200 explicit WhatsApp messages, as well as phone call and video call requests. The journalist filed a complaint with the Mumbai Cyber Crime police on the same day.

According AltNews, Tamil Nadu police have confirmed the page is run by a Chandan Kumar, who also runs a meme page known for content targeting Muslims. Following an extensive investigation of the account, Kumar's resume revealed he worked for a political consultancy firm known for its ties to the ruling conservative and Hindu-nationalist Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP).

Ayyub has expressed her frustration with the inaction of Maharashtra police, saying, "Is this how women must feel safe in the country? These heinous acts take place because authorities look the other way as women are publicly harassed".

The journalist has faced consistent abuse for her coverage, recently facing harassment from Manipur authorities during a reporting trip in October 2024.

The IJU said: "The IJU condemns online harassment, threats, and doxing against investigative award-winning journalist Rana Ayyub by some Hindutva groups. It's a serious violation of human rights to threaten to kill and rape a woman journalist openly. The Maharashtra police are sitting idle even though the source of the threats is known to the police."

The IFJ said:"The IFJ condemns this latest harassment against journalist Rana Ayyub, and strongly urges the Maharashtra police to conduct an immediate and transparent investigation into those responsible for the harassment and doxing. Both state and national authorities must address the threats facing journalists nationwide and ensure that the media can work without fear of attack or intimidation."