Rhiya Ahir, a 27-year-old model, actor, entrepreneur, and social media personality, has become the face of the CJP-led student protests in India after a video of her blocking a Mumbai Police van carrying detained protesters went viral.
The incident took place near Shivaji Park in Mumbai during a solidarity protest against alleged police action during the ‘Sansad Chalo’ march over examination irregularities.
According to Ahir, she was walking towards the protest when she noticed a police van transporting detained students. Believing they were being taken away without justification, she rushed in front of the vehicle and refused to let it move.
“I couldn’t help myself. Their chants pulled me towards them,” Ahir said, adding that she feared the students could be formally detained and face criminal charges if they were taken away.
She claimed police officers told her the detainees would be released after the van had travelled some distance, but she rejected the explanation, insisting they should be freed immediately.
Videos circulating on social media showed Ahir standing firmly in front of the police vehicle, while another bystander reportedly unlocked the van, allowing the detained students to leave.
Despite appearing calm in the viral footage, Ahir later admitted she was frightened throughout the confrontation.
“When I confronted them, I was shaking on the inside. I knew that what I was doing was right,” she said.
Known on Instagram as Rhiya Ekousiya, Ahir has nearly 100,000 followers and is the founder of the luxury clothing brand Rhiyasat. She has also appeared in several music videos, including Dilbara, released in February 2025.
Her actions have earned widespread praise online, with many social media users describing her as a symbol of courage and civil resistance.
In a separate video, Ahir said she understood police officers were performing their duties but believed they had a responsibility to act fairly.
“I understand that they are doing their job, but they are not doing it responsibly. If they don’t behave responsibly, we must take responsibility as citizens,” she said.
The incident comes amid a broader police crackdown on the student demonstrations. According to Mumbai Police, 13 cases were registered and around 400 people were booked between July 18 and July 22 over allegations including unlawful assembly and violations of prohibitory orders.
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