Lock Upp 2 contestant controversy

The Indian reality series *Lock Upp* saw contestant Harshan Chopda evicted during the Judgement Day episode of Season 2, only to win a special task that allowed his return to the house, resulting in the elimination of Dheeraj Dhoopar. A similar re‑entry had earlier occurred for Yogesh Rawat, while another contestant, Sufi, was permanently removed.

Following these twists, Dheeraj Dhoopar publicly criticized the practice of bringing back previously eliminated participants, labeling it “cheating” and unfair. He also addressed rumors that his wife, Vinny Arora, attempted to send him outside information, denying that any such notes reached him and asserting her motives were limited to concern for his health.

In a later episode, Harshad Chopda (formerly referred to as Harshan) secured the first finalist spot for the grand finale scheduled for August 5. He revealed that he had deliberately lost an earlier challenge to protect fellow contestant Shivangi Joshi. Upon hearing the confession, Shivangi stepped aside, allowing Harshad to claim the guaranteed place. Contestant Shreya Kalra, holding a special advantage from a previous task, used it to officially eliminate Shivangi from the competition. The show, hosted by Riteish Deshmukh and Farah Khan, featured guest appearances by actors Huma Qureshi and Bhumi Pednekar as it approached its conclusion.