Rachel Gupta Quits Miss Grand International Amidst Toxic Claims
The incident has sparked a wider conversation about the treatment of beauty pageant winners and the need for greater support and protection for individuals in the industry, with many calling for greater accountability and transparency from organizations like Miss Grand International.
Rachel Gupta, the 21-year-old Miss Grand International 2024 winner, has relinquished her crown, citing "broken promises, mistreatment, and a toxic environment" within the organization, sparking a heated controversy over the treatment of beauty pageant winners.
Gupta alleges mistreatment, including being pinched by a representative and feeling pressured to maintain a skinny physique, as well as being forced to sell cheap products on TikTok without her consent. The organization, however, disputes her claims, stating she failed to fulfill her duties, engaged in external projects without approval, and refused to participate in a scheduled trip. Experts warn that such experiences can have a long-term impact on mental health and self-worth, including internalized perfectionism, body dysmorphia, and emotional isolation.
The Miss Grand International President, Nawat Itsaragrisil, has been accused of body shaming and harassment, with Gupta sharing screenshots of his alleged comments on Instagram, questioning her eating habits and accusing her of getting surgery. The internet has reacted with outrage, calling Nawat "shameless" and accusing the organization of promoting harassment and a toxic environment. Samantha Bernardo, a beauty queen, is urging the Miss Grand International organization to support CJ Opiaza after Rachel Gupta's exit from the competition.
Gupta's case highlights the need for support and resources for individuals trapped in such situations, and the importance of promoting a healthy and respectful environment within the beauty pageant industry. As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the organization will respond to the allegations and work to prevent similar situations in the future.