Onler Kom has initiated criminal defamation proceedings against Mary Kom, alleging that her public remarks about him were damaging. The boxer is currently appearing on Bigg Boss 20.
Olympic medallist Mary Kom is facing a legal challenge from her former husband, Onler Kom, who has initiated criminal defamation proceedings against her under Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
The case reportedly relates to statements Mary made about Onler during television appearances and interviews. The next hearing is scheduled for November 19, 2026.
Confirming the legal action, Onler told Hindustan Times, “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.”
The dispute follows earlier comments by Mary on Aap Ki Adalat, where she spoke about their marriage and made allegations concerning their finances. She had claimed that money and assets earned through her boxing career were mishandled and that loans were taken in her name. Onler has denied the allegations and has made counter-allegations against Mary.
Mary and Onler married in 2005 and divorced in 2023. They have four children together.
The legal development comes while Mary Kom is currently participating in Bigg Boss 20, bringing an unexpected off-screen controversy into focus alongside her reality-show journey.
How Mary Kom and Onler First Met
Mary Kom and Onler reportedly met in Delhi around 2000. At the time, Onler was studying at Delhi University’s Law Faculty and is said to have helped Mary after she lost her luggage while travelling for a boxing competition. Their friendship later developed into a relationship, and they married in 2005.
Their Family Life
The couple welcomed twin sons in 2007 and another son in 2013. In 2018, they adopted a daughter, fulfilling Mary’s wish to have a daughter. Onler, who had a background in football, reportedly put his own career on hold to focus on raising their children and managing responsibilities at home.
Mary Kom’s Boxing Journey
While Onler focused on family responsibilities, Mary continued to make history in boxing. She went on to win six world championship titles and an Olympic bronze medal. She had also previously credited Onler for being a strong source of support throughout her career.
Divorce and the Current Legal Dispute
After nearly two decades together, Mary and Onler separated and later divorced in 2023 under Kom customary law. Their relationship has since become the subject of conflicting public claims, with the latest legal proceedings stemming from statements made by Mary about their marriage and finances.
Mary Kom’s Bigg Boss 20 Connection
The legal development comes while Mary Kom is appearing on Bigg Boss 20. Her participation in the reality show has brought renewed public attention to her personal life, while the defamation proceedings add another major development to the story surrounding the former couple.

