The episode opens with Puneet expressing his concerns to Mannat about the implications of Shalini’s situation on Mezbani’s reputation and Mannat’s job security. He emphasizes that they need to consider how Shalini’s dignity and the restaurant’s image are intertwined, especially in light of the ongoing treatment for her mother. Mannat responds with a firm stance, asserting that if she were to inform her mother about the situation, her mother would prioritize Shalini’s dignity over her own treatment. This revelation leads Mannat to reflect on her initial belief that Puneet would show more compassion towards Shalini, only to find him echoing Aishwarya’s sentiments.
Puneet insists that Mannat risks losing her job if she pursues this path, but Mannat is resolute in her commitment to seek justice for Shalini. She counters Puneet’s claims by reminding him that it was Vikrant who hired her, not him. Puneet argues that Vikrant would likely make the same decision he is advocating for. Just then, Vikrant enters the scene, and Mallika, observing the tension, worries that her mother will not support her if she fails to intervene with Vikrant. Aishwarya, sensing that Puneet is losing control of the situation, decides to step in.
As Mannat prepares to reveal the truth about the incident involving Shalini to Vikrant, Aishwarya interjects, attempting to sow confusion. Mannat stands her ground, stating that she is unbothered by the prospect of being fired. She informs Vikrant that someone molested Shalini in Mezbani’s kitchen, which catches the attention of Krish, who overhears and realizes that something significant is unfolding.
Aishwarya tries to manipulate the narrative by claiming to Vikrant that she has been more aware of the situation than he has. She presents herself as an ally to Shalini, arguing that she wants to protect Shalini’s name and future while attempting to shield Mezbani from scandal. Vikrant responds by asserting that Shalini’s dignity should take precedence over the restaurant’s reputation. Aishwarya counters, reminding him of the many employees relying on the restaurant for their livelihoods and the dreams he has invested in building Mezbani. She argues that he should consider the long-term implications of any decisions that could tarnish the restaurant’s name so soon after its opening.
Mannat, however, is unwavering in her belief that the perpetrator must face consequences, stating that her culprit will not escape unpunished. She refuses to let Shalini suffer in silence. Mallika chimes in, emphasizing that this is their family business and urging Vikrant to heed Aishwarya’s advice to keep the matter under wraps for the sake of their future. Vikrant, weighing the arguments, ultimately agrees that they must protect the business but questions Aishwarya’s commitment to doing anything necessary for its sake.
In a surprising turn, Vikrant instructs Mallika to take charge of cleaning the restaurant starting the next day. Mallika challenges him, questioning why she should be the one to handle it. Vikrant retorts that the same logic applies to Shalini’s situation—who are they to decide her fate? He asserts that they must seek justice for her, rather than conceal evidence from the police. He expresses gratitude to Mannat for her prompt action in getting Shalini admitted to the hospital.
As the plot thickens, Aishwarya learns that Shalini has regained consciousness and rushes to the hospital, anxious that Shalini might reveal her involvement in the situation. Meanwhile, Neetu expresses her concern for her son, Roni, who insists that they should focus on Shalini, the true victim of a heinous act. He commends Mannat for her bravery in standing up for Shalini, much to Neetu’s disapproval. Raveena, on the other hand, worries that Bobi may have acted out of intoxication.
Later, Mannat grapples with guilt over Shalini’s condition, blaming herself for what has transpired. Vikrant comforts her, offering words of encouragement that surprise Mannat. In a poignant moment, Mannat visits Shalini, striving to uplift her spirits and provide motivation. However, Aishwarya seizes the opportunity to create further confusion, subtly signaling to Shalini to make a decision that aligns with her interests before exiting the scene.
As the episode draws to a close, Shalini, overwhelmed by her circumstances, directs her frustration towards Mannat, blaming her for the unfortunate turn of events, leaving viewers in suspense about the unfolding drama.