Model Rachel Gupta’s resignation from her Miss Grand International 2024 title has erupted into a public controversy, with starkly different narratives emerging from Gupta and the Miss Grand International (MGI) Organisation.
Rachel Gupta’s Claims
In a heartfelt Instagram post, 21-year-old Gupta stated she had voluntarily stepped down, citing:
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A “toxic environment” within the organisation.
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Unkept promises and mistreatment following her historic win.
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Her need to speak up for herself despite the personal and professional risks involved.
She described her decision as “difficult but necessary,” promising to reveal “the full truth” in an upcoming video. In her caption, she wrote:
“The truth will come out very soon.”
Gupta also addressed her supporters directly, expressing regret if the resignation disappointed them, but reaffirmed that the move was for her own well-being.
MGI Organisation’s Rebuttal
In response, the MGI Organisation issued a formal statement refuting Gupta’s resignation claim. Instead, they asserted that she had been officially terminated, citing:
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Failure to fulfill duties expected of a reigning titleholder.
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Unauthorized participation in external projects.
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Refusal to attend an official MGI event in Guatemala.
The statement reads:
“The Miss Grand International Organisation hereby announces the termination of Miss Rachel Gupta’s title… effective immediately.”
The organisation has also demanded the return of the crown within 30 days.
Context & Fallout
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Gupta was crowned Miss Grand International 2024 on October 25, becoming the first Indian to win the title.
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Her victory was celebrated widely, likened to Lara Dutta’s Miss Universe 2000 triumph, and she also received the Grand Pageants Choice Award.
This sudden fallout not only taints what was a groundbreaking win for India on the global beauty pageant stage, but also highlights longstanding issues in international pageantry — including allegations of exploitation, pressure to comply with strict organisational control, and disputes over image and branding rights.
What’s Next?
All eyes are now on:
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Gupta’s promised video, where she intends to share her full account of the situation.
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The MGI Organisation’s potential next steps if Gupta refuses to return the crown or further challenges their version.
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The reaction of fans, former titleholders, and industry insiders, many of whom are closely watching how this high-profile dispute unfolds.
This episode adds to growing global scrutiny of how pageant organisations operate and the toll it takes on young women representing their nations on the international stage.
