Is backwards running safe and beneficial for fat loss? if so would backwards elliptical have the same benefits?

Backwards running: not entirely safe: you tend to run into things and trip and fall down ! Backwards elliptical is far safer. the main benefit is that different muscles are used for forward and backward. Plus side is that the stress is more even and the muscles worked are all built up. Downside is you use muscles you haven't used before and they are more easily strained. Gradually build up tension and duration.

All exercise equal: For weight control, doesn't matter what exercise is done. The more intense, the more calories burned, but specific movements don't burn more fat. Running backwards will strengthen different muscles though. But diet is by far more important than exercise for weight control. Few people can burn enough calories day in & day out with exercise to stay trim, unless also limiting calorie intake.