Bollywood actress Swara Bhasker’s husband, politician Fahad Ahmad, faced defeat in Maharashtra’s Anushakti Nagar Assembly elections, sparking a social media controversy. During the vote counting on November 23, Fahad shared a video alleging discrepancies in the functioning of EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines). He claimed that 99% charged machines were casting double or triple votes for his opponent, Sana Malik, the daughter of Nawab Malik. Fahad demanded a recount of votes for rounds 16 to 19 and a thorough investigation by the Election Commission of India (ECI).
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Fahad questioned the legitimacy of the voting process, alleging bias in favor of BJP-backed candidates. Swara Bhasker echoed his concerns, tagging the ECI and questioning the unusual charge levels of the machines.
99% battery of CU and dilemma of BJP Alias winning. pic.twitter.com/pjwPZUrUD3
— Fahad Ahmad (@FahadZirarAhmad) November 23, 2024
Reacting to Fahad’s defeat, popular YouTuber and Bigg Boss OTT 2 winner Elvish Yadav posted a controversial comment. Referring to Swara, he wrote, “This is your punishment for not keeping Swara in hijab,” adding a half-moon emoji. His remark drew widespread attention online, sparking debates on social media.
Swara and Fahad, who married in February 2023 under the Special Marriage Act, actively campaigned for his election. Fahad ran on an NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) ticket, challenging NCP candidate Sana Malik. Despite early leads, Fahad’s trailing performance in later rounds led to allegations of electoral malpractices from his camp.
Swara, who welcomed her daughter Raabiyaa with Fahad earlier this year, voiced her dissatisfaction with the election process, adding to the ongoing discussions about the integrity of India’s electoral system.
