Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said that vilification of the woman journalist, who was allegedly sexually assaulted by Tehelka former Editor Tarun Tejpal, was extremely unfortunate.

“I think the way they are now trying to vilify the woman is even more unfortunate. I think it would have been better if this sort of mud raking would not have taken place,” Omar told reporters on the sidelines of a function here.

Omar was also critical of the handling of the issue by the news magazine.

“That is an unfortunate incident....The way the Tehelka handled it is extremely unfortunate,” he said.

The Chief Minister, however, said that the law should take its course after Tejpal presented himself before the Goa police.

“He (Tejpal) has now presented himself to police in Goa. The law must follow its course and if he is guilty, he will be punished,” Omar added.