The very fact that the producer is guaging the success of a show on basis of online popularity is a recipe for disaster. The makers shot themselves in the foot. Sony audience is more open to out-of-the-box concepts, no doubt. But they do draw a line somewhere.
Out of sight does not mean out of mind. If they brought in Zeenat angle, they should have had the conviction to tell the story. Leaving it in a limbo does not mean people would just forget about her.
Sticking my neck out... Take away Harshad from the show, how many would continue to watch HS?