Rachel steps down as 'Miss Grand Intl 2024' over 'mistreatment'

Rachel Gupta, first Indian to be crowned Miss Grand International, has stepped down from her title less than a year after her historic win. The 20-year-old model from Jalandhar announced her decision on Wednesday, alleging broken promises, mistreatment and a toxic environment within the organisation as the reasons behind her move.

Rachel had won the Miss Grand International 2024 crown in a glittering ceremony held in Bangkok, Thailand, on October 25. Her victory followed her earlier triumph 'Miss Grand India 2024' organised by Glamanand in August last year, which had earned her a spot at the international pageant.

In a message to her followers, Rachel expressed disappointment, saying the dream she had worked so hard to achieve had turned into a painful experience. “This wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the right one for me. I was filled with pride and hope to represent my country, but what followed were months of silence, disrespect and neglect,” she wrote, adding that a full video explaining her experience would be released soon.

The Miss Grand International Organisation, however, painted a different picture. In a public statement posted on Instagram, the organisation claimed that Rachel had failed to meet her obligations as the reigning titleholder. It accused her of engaging in outside projects without permission and refusing to attend an official trip to Guatemala, which, the organisation said, amounted to a breach of contract.

“The Miss Grand International Organisation announces the termination of Miss Rachel Gupta’s title, effective immediately,” the statement read, adding that she must return the crown within 30 days.

Rachel first rose to international attention in 2022, when she won the Miss Super Talent of the World title in Paris at just 18. With her poised presence and strong stage performance, she quickly became favorite in the fashion and pageant scene.

When approached for a response, members of Rachel Gupta’s family said she will soon hold a press conference to share her side of the story. They added that an official statement will also be posted on her social media platforms soon.