Riya Ahir disputes claims of scripted political activism

Mumbai-based model and digital creator Riya Ahir has entered a public dispute with political commentator and former BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla following her unsuccessful bid to join the reality television show Bigg Boss 20.

Poonawalla criticized Ahir on social media, suggesting that her viral moment during the Gen Z protests—where she was filmed standing in front of a police vehicle—was a scripted political strategy designed to promote an ‘Anti-Modi agenda’. He claimed the incident was part of a coordinated effort involving various political figures.

Ahir responded to the comments via Instagram, rebuking Poonawalla for mocking her and criticizing his approach toward young women. Ahir first gained widespread internet fame in July 2026 after her protest footage went viral, subsequently transitioning into modeling, entrepreneurship, and reality TV competition.