Tensions erupt in EastEnders next week as Ravi Gulati’s protective instincts drive him to violent extremes after uncovering the disturbing truth about his daughter Avani’s relationship with Joel Marshall. What begins as a simmering concern over Avani’s wellbeing quickly escalates into a full-blown crisis, one that threatens to shatter several families and leave lasting consequences in its wake.

Ravi has been on edge for some time, deeply unsettled by his daughter’s erratic behavior and increasing reliance on alcohol and drugs. His fears intensified after Avani was subjected to a humiliating and traumatic strip search at the police station, stemming from a false accusation of drug possession. Though Avani initially stayed silent about her ordeal, her mother Priya spoke up on her behalf. Later, after some encouragement from Yolande Trueman, Avani bravely went to the station herself to lodge a complaint – only to be met with indifference as the case was quickly swept aside.

This emotional blow, coupled with her continued struggle to cope, saw Avani falling deeper into risky behavior. Unable to afford more cannabis, she found an enabler in Joel Marshall – a charming but reckless newcomer. Their connection took a darker turn when Joel interrupted an intimate conversation between Avani and Barney Mitchell, only to later mock her behind her back while watching pornography with Tommy Moon. Joel’s disturbing comment about wanting to recreate the scene with Avani raised alarm bells for viewers, as his true nature began to emerge.

Despite these red flags, Avani and Joel went on to sleep together – a decision that would spark even greater turmoil. In a jaw-dropping moment earlier this week, Joel’s father Ross and his partner Vicki Fowler returned home to find the teens in the act. While Avani fled in embarrassment, Joel was left to face his father’s fury.

In the aftermath, Vicki insists that Ross needs to have a serious conversation with Avani’s parents. But Ross, clearly uncomfortable and keen to avoid direct conflict, attempts to speak with Avani himself – a move that only deepens the confusion. Suki Panesar-Unwin observes the interaction and becomes suspicious when Ross and Avani give conflicting accounts of the conversation. She confronts Vicki and Ross, and under pressure, they reveal the full truth. Alarmed, Suki urges Avani to open up to her parents – a request the teenager is reluctant to fulfill, knowing how Ravi might react.

Suki then takes it upon herself to inform Priya of what’s been happening, unaware that Ravi is within earshot and has overheard everything. What follows is an explosive moment of pure fury. Ravi, unable to control his rage, storms off to confront Joel directly. What starts as a verbal lashing quickly turns violent, with Ravi launching a physical attack on Ross instead – perhaps in an effort to punish the parent for his son’s actions.

The situation spirals out of control as fists fly and tempers flare. As Ravi’s wrath boils over, the question arises: will Avani or anyone else be able to defuse the situation before someone gets seriously hurt?

This storyline marks a powerful turning point for several characters. For Ravi, it exposes the fine line between protecting his daughter and letting rage consume him. For Ross and Vicki, it shatters the illusion of a controllable situation and forces them to face the dangerous implications of Joel’s behavior. And for Avani, it sets the stage for a deeper reckoning – with her family, her choices, and the dark influence Joel has had on her.

As EastEnders continues to explore the far-reaching consequences of toxic teenage dynamics, coercion, and parental overreach, this emotionally charged arc will leave fans reeling. The writers are pulling no punches in highlighting the very real dangers that lurk behind peer pressure, blurred boundaries, and social media-fueled relationships.

The fallout from Ravi’s violent outburst will undoubtedly shake Walford to its core. But with so many secrets now exposed, the real challenge lies in how each family chooses to pick up the pieces – and whether Avani will find the strength to speak her truth, not just to her parents, but to herself.

Expect fireworks, tears, and tough conversations ahead.