YouTuber Rajab Butt appeals for justice after perfume uproar

Pakistani YouTuber Rajab Butt Issues Apology from Masjid al-Haram Amid Blasphemy Controversy: A Story Resonating Across Pakistan and Dubai

Renowned Pakistani YouTuber Rajab Butt, who enjoys a substantial digital following in both Pakistan and Dubai, is now at the heart of a major blasphemy controversy that has triggered intense backlash on social media platforms in Pakistan and the UAE. The issue emerged after the launch of his perfume brand “295,” a name referencing Section 295-A of Pakistan’s Penal Code, a law related to blasphemy and religious sentiments.


Legal Case Sparks Outrage in Pakistan and Among the Pakistani Community in Dubai


Rajab Butt is facing charges under PECA (Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act) and Pakistan’s Section 295-A, following claims that the perfume name mocked religious laws. This led to an FIR being registered, with possible legal penalties including up to ten years of imprisonment if convicted.


The reaction was swift—especially from religious groups in Pakistan, including Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), whose leader Haider Ali Shah Gillani filed the official complaint. The case has drawn significant attention in Dubai, where a large Pakistani expat population closely follows developments related to religion, social justice, and online influence.


Emotional Apology from Masjid al-Haram in Makkah During Umrah

In a heartfelt video statement released from Masjid al-Haram while performing Umrah, Rajab Butt—dressed in Ihram—apologized publicly, seeking forgiveness from Allah and the global Muslim community. Holding the Holy Quran and reciting Darood Sharif, he stated:

“I swear at this sacred place that I had no malicious intent. I dedicate my life, my wealth, my parents, and my children to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).”


He emphasized that the controversy arose from ignorance, not malice, and appealed to both Pakistan’s religious scholars and the government for understanding and reconsideration of the charges filed against him.


Social Media Backlash in Dubai and Pakistan

The original promotional video for the “295” perfume, posted on YouTube, quickly went viral before being deleted. The backlash extended to Dubai-based Pakistani forums, WhatsApp groups, and TikTok influencers, many of whom expressed concern over the incident while urging caution in using religious references in branding or
marketing
.


The digital uproar led Butt to not only delete the promotional video but also announce the discontinuation of the perfume line altogether.


Not Rajab Butt’s First Run-In With the Law


This isn’t the influencer’s first brush with controversy. Earlier in the year, he faced legal action for possessing an undocumented lion cub—a gift received during his wedding celebrations. Avoiding imprisonment, he was ordered to produce animal rights awareness content for a year. The incident was widely shared in Dubai’s wildlife conservation circles, given the region’s strict stance on exotic animal ownership.


Edited Footage and Claims of Misinterpretation


In his latest video statement, Rajab Butt claimed that a key part of his original vlog was edited out, which allegedly would have clarified his stance on the perfume’s name. He believes this selective editing led to a misunderstanding, fueling the controversy.


He concluded by apologizing to Allah, His Messenger (PBUH), and the global Muslim Ummah, stating his desire to seek forgiveness for any unintended offense and asking for people’s hearts to be softened towards him.


Final Thoughts: A Reminder for Influencers in Pakistan and Dubai

This case has stirred important conversations in both Pakistan and Dubai about the responsibilities of social media influencers, especially when addressing topics that intersect with faith, law, and culture. With both countries having strong religious sensitivities and robust online communities, influencers must tread carefully to avoid misunderstandings that could lead to severe consequences.


As Rajab Butt’s legal proceedings continue, the case remains under intense public and media scrutiny in Pakistan and within the Pakistani diaspora in Dubai.



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