KARACHI – The Additional District and Sessions Judge (Central) has issued notices to YouTuber Rajab Butt and others in response to allegations of disrespecting the Islamic prayer (Namaz) on social media platforms.
The court’s action follows a petition filed by Advocate Riaz Ali Solangi, accusing Rajab Butt of sharing content that allegedly insulted Islamic values and hurt the sentiments of Muslims. During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel argued that the content in question amounted to a desecration of Islamic practices, causing distress among the faithful.
In light of these accusations, the court directed the Station House Officer (SHO) of Hyderi Police Station to submit a comprehensive investigative report by January 13, 2025. Notices have also been dispatched to all relevant parties involved in the case.
The judge underscored the importance of a thorough and impartial investigation, urging law enforcement authorities to handle the matter with urgency and sensitivity.
The incident has ignited intense debate on social media, with many users calling for accountability and legal action against content that disrespects religious sentiments.
Amidst the controversy, Rajab Butt released a clarification video featuring clerics from various sects to address the allegations. In the video, shared via a TikTok account managed by his associate Adnan Ali (@adnanaliareezay), Rajab Butt stated:
“For the past few days, I have been accused of disrespecting namaz. I requested clerics from different sects to confirm whether, God forbid, I committed any act of disrespect or hurt anyone’s sentiments.”
Further proceedings in the case are scheduled for mid-January, pending the police’s investigative findings.