Tension continues to mount around Battleground, the reality web show that has now become the center of a major controversy. A reported fallout between celebrity judges Rubina Dilaik and Asim Riaz that seems to have spiraled out of control.
It all began when reports emerged that Asim Riaz had a heated argument with Rubina during the filming of the show. Eyewitnesses claimed that Asim lost his composure and passed disrespectful remarks. What started as a disagreement quickly turned into a verbal spat that shook the set. According to insiders, the situation escalated to a point where Asim was allegedly asked to leave the show.
The tension didn’t stop there. Rubina’s husband, Abhinav Shukla, came forward to support her soon after the incident. But things took a darker turn when Abhinav received death threats online. The threats were linked to the infamous Bishnoi gang, known for targeting celebrities.
Abhinav shared a screen recording on his X (formerly Twitter) account. The clip showed a direct message from an Instagram user who claimed to be a Bishnoi gang member. The message included abusive language aimed at both Rubina and Abhinav, blaming them for clashing with Asim. What disturbed many was the chilling threat, Abhinav was warned that bullets would be fired at his home just as they were at Salman Khan’s residence.
Tagging the police authorities of Punjab and Chandigarh, Abhinav urged immediate action. “DEATH THREATS to my family!” he wrote. He also requested the public to help identify the person behind the threat. He pointed out that the individual could be from either Chandigarh or Mohali and pleaded with law enforcement to act swiftly.
DEATH THREATS to my family ! @DGPPunjabPolice @PunjabPoliceInd @DgpChdPolice @ChdPol. Person seems to be from Chandigarh / Mohali . Please act firmly & promptly. To anyone who recognises the person plz report to @DGPPunjabPolice pic.twitter.com/XLkktoYUXa
— Abhinav Shukla (@ashukla09) April 20, 2025This attack on her family pushed Rubina to break her silence. The usually composed actress couldn’t hold back any longer. Reacting to the threat, she stated, “My silence is not my weakness. Don’t test my patience.” Her words reflected her frustration over the escalating hostility. She followed up by posting screenshots of hateful comments targeting both her and Abhinav. Many of these were from users claiming to support Asim Riaz.
One user even accused them of trying to defame Asim. Rubina highlighted how this online abuse was affecting her personal life. She pointed out that the hostility wasn’t just directed at her but also extended to her husband and family. Several of these comments contained vile abuses and even further threats.
In response to Abhinav’s post, Asim Riaz addressed the situation through his Instagram story. While he didn’t name anyone directly, it was clear who he was referring to. He dismissed the threats as staged. He claimed that the comments were fake and accused Abhinav of using them to gain public sympathy. Asim wrote, “Stop fishing for sympathy off fake comments from fake IDs.”
The tension between the two male celebrities didn’t end there. Earlier, Abhinav had reportedly criticized Asim’s fitness. Asim responded indirectly, but his message carried a clear edge. For those who’ve been following the show, this wasn’t the first time things had gotten heated. Rubina and Asim had already clashed multiple times during the shoot, particularly when defending their respective teams.
As per insiders, the latest altercation crossed the line. Asim allegedly questioned Rubina’s standing and credibility on the show. In addition, there were reports of a separate argument between Asim and fellow judge Abhishek Malhan. Sources say the fight was intense, contributing to the decision to remove Asim from the show.
So far, the makers of Battleground have remained silent. There’s been no official word on Asim’s status or whether he will return. The controversy has cast a shadow over the show’s run, with fans now divided into camps. For now, the truth remains tangled in social media threads, fan wars, and a deeply personal battle that moved far beyond the screen.
