YouTuber Rajab Butt
Renowned Pakistani YouTuber Rajab Butt is facing legal action over allegations of hurting religious sentiments following the launch of his perfume, “295.”
The perfume’s name, referencing Pakistan’s blasphemy laws, sparked widespread outrage and led to a case being registered against him under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and Section 295-A of the Pakistan Penal Code.
In response to the backlash, Butt issued a public apology while performing Umrah in Masjid al-Haram, Makkah. Dressed in Ihram, he shared an emotional video in which he invoked Allah as his witness, asserting that he had no ill intentions when naming the perfume.
Holding a copy of the Holy Quran, he recited Darood Sharif and reaffirmed his devotion to Islam, stating, “My wealth, life, parents, children, and every drop of my blood are dedicated to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).”
The controversy began when Butt introduced the perfume in a YouTube vlog. The name’s reference to the country’s blasphemy laws was perceived by many, particularly members of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), as offensive. Haider Ali Shah Gillani, a leader of the religious party, formally lodged a complaint, stating that the product’s branding had hurt the religious sentiments of many.
Authorities quickly took action, registering an FIR against Butt under PECA and Section 295-A, which deals with deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings. If convicted, he could face up to ten years in prison. A police charge sheet, verified by officials, outlines the allegations, including blasphemy-related offenses and cybercrime violations.
Amid the growing controversy, Butt deleted the promotional video and announced the discontinuation of the perfume line. He also issued multiple apologies, pleading with religious scholars, the Punjab government, and the Pakistan Army to reconsider the charges against him.
In his statement, he insisted that the situation arose due to ignorance rather than malice and claimed that a key part of his original video, where he clarified his stance, had been edited out, leading to a misinterpretation of his words.
This is not the first time Rajab Butt has faced legal trouble. Earlier this year, he was caught in another controversy when he was found in possession of an undocumented lion cub, which he had received as a wedding gift. He pleaded guilty to the offense and avoided jail time by agreeing to produce animal rights awareness videos for a year.
In his latest apology, Butt reiterated his remorse, addressing Allah, His Messenger, and all Muslims. He expressed deep regret if his actions had unintentionally caused offense and urged people to “cleanse their hearts” toward him. At the conclusion of his statement, he once again sought forgiveness, hoping for justice and understanding in the face of the accusations.
