Mary Kom in legal trouble after ex-husband Onler files criminal defamation case

Former Indian boxer Mary Kom’s ex-husband Onler Kom has initiated criminal defamation proceedings against the Olympic medallist, accusing her of making disparaging statements about him on television and other public platforms. 

According to Hindustan Times, the case has been filed under Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the provision dealing with defamation. A conviction under the section can result in imprisonment of up to two years, a fine, or both. The next hearing is scheduled for November 19, 2026. 

Onler confirms legal action

According to people familiar with the matter, Onler had been contemplating legal action for some time following comments made by Mary on a television programme and subsequently on other public platforms.

Onler confirmed that he had initiated proceedings but declined to discuss the allegations in detail because the matter is before the court.

“I have a strong case. I have faith in the judicial system of India. The matter is sub judice, so I won’t comment any further,” he said.

A person close to Onler said he had initially decided against pursuing the matter, hoping to avoid further conflict. However, the allegations eventually prompted him to take legal action, the source said.

“Initially, he thought he would let it go because he only wanted to live peacefully. But his family and friends also started asking him if any of those allegations were true. He is now seeking an apology and damages from Mary Kom for what he believes were baseless allegations because he has been haunted and hounded by these false allegations,” the source said.

Mary Kom’s allegations

Mary has previously levelled allegations against Onler over their finances. She claimed that money earned during her boxing career had been misappropriated and alleged that loans were taken in her name without her consent.

She also alleged that property had been mortgaged and that certain assets were transferred to Onler’s name without her proper approval.

Onler has denied the allegations. He has also made counter-allegations about Mary’s conduct during their marriage and challenged her to substantiate the claims she made against him.

The latest legal action centres on statements that Onler says damaged his reputation.

Mary Kom and Onler’s relationship

Mary and Onler reportedly met in Delhi in 2000, when Onler was studying at Delhi University’s Law Faculty. He is said to have helped Mary after she lost her luggage while travelling to a competition.

The couple married in 2005 and went on to have three sons. They welcomed twin boys in 2007 and another son in 2013. In 2018, they adopted a daughter, fulfilling Mary’s wish to have a daughter.

Onler, who played football, put his sporting career on hold to focus on raising their children and managing responsibilities at home. Mary went on to build a celebrated boxing career, winning six world championships and an Olympic bronze medal. She has previously described Onler as her “pillar of strength”.

The couple later separated. Mary confirmed that their marriage had ended in 2023 under Kom customary law.

Mary is currently appearing on the reality television show ‘Bigg Boss’.

The defamation proceedings are now before the court, with the next hearing listed for November 19, 2026.