Mary Kom Faces Defamation Lawsuit from Ex-Husband Over Allegations

A defamation lawsuit has been filed against boxer Mary Kom by her ex-husband, Karong Onkholer, who alleges that her public statements have damaged his reputation. The complaint, lodged in Delhi, claims that Kom's remarks during a television interview were false and malicious. The case is currently pending in court, with a hearing scheduled for November 19. Onkholer asserts that he sacrificed his career to support Kom's boxing ambitions and argues that her allegations portray him negatively. This legal battle highlights the complexities surrounding public figures and personal relationships.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 9, 2026, 21:13 IST

Defamation Complaint Filed Against Mary Kom

On Friday, Advocate Akash Krishna, representing Karong Onkholer, the ex-husband of boxer Mary Kom, announced that a defamation lawsuit has been initiated against her. The complaint, lodged at the Saket Court in Delhi, claims that statements made by Kom across various platforms constitute character assassination.

Allegations of False Statements

The complaint asserts that during a television interview, Mary Kom made false and damaging statements about Onkholer, intending to tarnish his reputation. This legal action was filed on October 6 and is currently awaiting a hearing in front of Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Shivam Gupta, scheduled for November 19.

Details of the Legal Action

Advocate Krishna explained that the complaint is based on Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). He stated that Kom's accusations of her former husband misusing her finances are considered character assassination. The court is set to review the pre-summoning evidence and witness testimonies on November 19.

"We have initiated a defamation case against Mary Kom on behalf of her ex-husband. A smear campaign has been directed at him, and while the case is now sub judice, I cannot comment extensively on its merits. However, it is evident that she has made serious allegations against him, which we believe are defamatory," he remarked.

Background of the Complaint

Karong Onkholer claims he married Mary Kom on March 12, 2005, and they lived together in Faridabad until their customary divorce on December 20, 2023. He argues that he sacrificed his own career to support Kom's boxing career, countering her claims that he has never held a job.

The complaint highlights that Mary Kom, a celebrated boxing champion with a significant public presence, made these statements during a widely viewed television program on January 11, 2026, after their divorce.

Impact of the Allegations

Onkholer contends that Kom's statements portray him as dishonest, unfaithful, and financially dependent on her, which he argues has severely damaged his reputation as a spouse and parent. He claims these allegations constitute defamation under Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.