MUMBAI: Actor Gehana Vasisth today launched a scathing attack on the makers of the reality show Lock Upp, alleging that the captivity-based series is “completely scripted” and driven by favouritism and casting bias. rather than genuine competition.
Gehana, who is a veteran in the Bollywood grapevine and underground gossip networks, thanks to her deep-rooted contacts all over, has opened up at a time when the show is facing criticism over contestant treatment, food-related disputes, alleged targeted or manipulated bullying, and accusations of production bias from viewers and industry observers alike.
Speaking in recent media interactions, Gehana claimed that the reality show does not offer an equal platform to all contestants. According to her, certain inmates receive preferential treatment while others are deliberately sidelined to create dramatic storylines and boost ratings.
“This is not an unscripted reality show. Everything appears to be planned. Some contestants are protected no matter what they do, while others are targeted to create controversies. The audience deserves to know the truth,” Gehana alleged.
The actor further accused the makers of encouraging selective narratives that favour particular contestants while portraying others negatively. She claimed that editing patterns, task outcomes and disciplinary decisions often appear designed to benefit chosen participants. “Everything in the show is fake, be it the contestants or the production standards. They are just chasing TRPs and viewers,” she quipped.
“The makers decide who should become the hero and who should become the villain. That is not reality—it is pre-scripted storytelling disguised as reality television,” she told this reporter, while accusing the production team of bias and favoritism.
Lock Upp controversies continue to dominate headlines
Gehana’s allegations add to a growing list of controversies surrounding the latest season of Lock Upp. The Netflix-streaming reality show has witnessed multiple high-voltage confrontations, heated verbal clashes and emotional breakdowns inside the house.
One of the biggest flashpoints involved allegations of targeted bullying among contestants, with several social media users and viewers accusing the makers of allowing certain participants to repeatedly gang up against others without meaningful intervention. The incidents sparked intense debates online, with viewers questioning whether the show’s producers were selectively enforcing rules to favor certain contestants.
The programme also attracted attention after contestants protested over food availability and living conditions inside the house. Reports of food rationing, arguments over basic necessities and complaints regarding water supply became major talking points during the season, prompting widespread discussion across entertainment portals and social media platforms.
Casting choices have also generated considerable backlash. Several viewers questioned the selection of controversial personalities, arguing that the emphasis appeared to be on generating sensational headlines rather than creating a balanced competitive environment. These debates have further fueled speculation about whether the show’s narrative is being carefully engineered to maximize viewer engagement.
The producers of Lock Upp have not publicly responded to Gehana’s latest claims regarding scripting, favouritism or production bias.
Reality television has frequently faced criticism over editing techniques, selective storytelling and producer influence. While most reality shows maintain that contestants’ actions are genuine, critics have long argued that creative editing, task design and production decisions can significantly shape audience perception.
Audience divided over the controversy
Gehana’s explosive comments have once again divided viewers. While some social media users agree that reality shows often manipulate narratives for entertainment value, others believe contestants make such allegations only after falling out with producers or failing to achieve their desired outcomes.
Regardless of where public opinion ultimately lands, the controversy has once again placed Lock Upp under the spotlight. With debates surrounding alleged scripting, contestant favouritism, bullying, food rationing, and production decisions continuing to trend online, the show remains one of the most talked-about reality programmes in the country.
Whether Gehana Vasisth’s allegations trigger an official response from the makers or simply add another chapter to the show’s long list of controversies remains to be seen. For now, Gehana Vasisth’s remarks have reignited the conversation about transparency, fairness and authenticity in Indian reality television.