Popular YouTuber Rajab Butt has been booked under blasphemy and cybercrime laws after the launch of his perfume brand stirred religious controversy. The fragrance, named “295,” allegedly mocked Pakistan’s blasphemy law, drawing criticism from religious circles. The controversy led to an FIR being registered against him at Lahore’s Nishtar Colony Police Station, filed by a leader of Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).
Rajab Butt Perfume Launch Controversy
Rajab Butt, known for his massive online following and past controversies, launched his “295” perfume, which many interpreted as a reference to Section 295 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), a law related to blasphemy. In a now-deleted video, he linked the name to a previous blasphemy case filed against him, as well as his late “mentor,” Indian singer Sidhu Moose Wala, who had a song with the same title.
His perfume promotion quickly drew backlash, with critics accusing him of making light of a highly sensitive religious issue. The complaint, filed by TLP leader Haider Ali Shah Gillani, stated that Butt was spreading “anti-religious content” and violating PPC Section 295-A (insulting religious beliefs) and Section 11 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) 2016 (hate speech). The FIR claimed Butt had “hurt religious sentiments” and used his platform irresponsibly.
The Official Response
The incident has serious legal consequences, with Rajab Butt facing up to 10 years in prison if convicted. Lahore Deputy Inspector General of Police (Operations) Faisal Kamran confirmed that the cybercrime charge was added because the content was posted on social media. Authorities have also sought input from the Pakistan Ulema Council regarding the allegations.
Currently performing Umrah, Butt is expected to be arrested upon his return to Pakistan. Following the backlash, he issued a public apology, stating:
“I apologise for the words I uttered during the launch of the perfume. I never intended to disrespect religious sentiments. I am discontinuing the perfume with immediate effect.”
This isn’t the first time Butt has faced legal issues. In January, he pleaded guilty to owning an undocumented lion cub and avoided jail time by promising to promote animal rights awareness.
The case highlights the sensitivity surrounding religious matters in Pakistan, where even perceived blasphemy allegations can lead to serious legal and social consequences. Authorities have urged social media influencers to be mindful of religious sentiments, as public reactions to such matters can be extreme.
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