Rajab Butt, a prominent YouTube star from Pakistan, faces blasphemy charges after launching a perfume controversially named "295." The name is a reference to a section of Pakistan’s penal code that was used to uphold blasphemy legislation. The launch has touched off a storm of public outcry. Consequently, today the radical leader of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) has lodged a criminal complaint.
Rajab Butt released an apology video on Sunday, following up on the backlash over the perfume. In his video, he emphasized his respect for Pakistan's blasphemy laws and expressed regret over any offense caused by the product's name.
"I apologise for the words I uttered during the launch of the perfume," he said while holding a Koran. "I apologise and announce the discontinuation of this perfume," he added. – Rajab Butt
Butt still has to navigate one of the most delicate landscapes in the world, Pakistan. Here, charges of blasphemy can trigger a furious public response and fuel mob violence. To make things worse, a fatwa has been issued against him.
"A fatwa (Islamic ruling) has also been issued against me," he adds. "I request your understanding and forgiveness." – Rajab Butt
The stakes are high as the controversy escalates. Butt could face up to ten years in prison if convicted. Even outside of the strange events leading to Butt’s death, the self-styled “Killer” has a long history of legal woes. In January he pleaded guilty to possessing an illegal wild animal after a lion cub was presented to him as a wedding gift.
Rajab Butt has previously likened himself to his "mentor," the late Indian rapper Sidhu Moose Wala, who released a song titled "295" referencing religious incitement. This connection has brought more scrutiny onto Butt’s actions and seemingly made matters worse for him.
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