Rajab Butt's '295' perfume lands him in major legal trouble

YouTuber Rajab Butt keeps on landing in trouble, but this time he may be in over his head. 

The controversial vlogger is in hot water this time for launching a perfume named '295', reminiscent of the penal code of Pakistan’s blasphemy law. The perfume's name drew widespread backlash, leading to a case filed against him.

A case was registered against Rajab Butt at the Nishter Colony police station under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). The charges include offending public sentiments and causing emotional harm. According to the FIR, a citizen accused Butt of insulting religious sentiments and undermining the sanctity of Pakistan’s blasphemy laws. The complainant further alleged that Butt's marketing tactics promote indecency and negatively influence the younger generation.

The controversy intensified after Butt made remarks in a video referencing blasphemy charges faced by the late Indian rapper Sidhu Moose Wala, and himself. His mention of launching a perfume under the name 295 led to strong criticism from various quarters, including religious groups and social activists.

This is not the first time Rajab Butt has faced legal trouble. Previously, he was arrested in Lahore for possessing an unlicensed Kalashnikov and a lion cub. A joint raid by the police and the Wildlife Department led to his detention, though he was later released on bail. Despite these incidents, he remains under scrutiny due to his bold and often controversial online presence.

Amid the growing backlash, Butt issued a public apology while performing Umrah in Makkah. Standing in Masjid-e-Haram, he recorded a video clarifying his statements and seeking forgiveness.

In an Instagram video, he recited Darood Sharif and the Islamic declaration of faith, expressing his devotion: "My wealth, life, parents, children, and every drop of my blood are dedicated to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)." He swore on the sacred site that he never intended to offend anyone and urged his followers to "cleanse their hearts" towards him.

Butt appealed to religious scholars, the Punjab government, and the Pakistan Army to reconsider the charges against him. He claimed that his comments regarding Section 295 were taken out of context, alleging that a key word was edited out of his video, leading to a fatwa being issued against him.

His apology, however, did not put an end to the controversy. TLP (Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan) leader Haider Ali Shah Gillani formally filed an FIR against Butt for insulting religious beliefs and hate speech. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison.

In response to the controversy, Butt announced the discontinuation of the "295" perfume. He admitted that his words during the perfume launch might have been inappropriate and expressed deep regret for any offense caused.

Rajab Butt has frequently found himself at the center of scandals, from legal troubles to provocative social media content. His recent actions have reignited debates on digital responsibility and the boundaries of free speech in Pakistan.

As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen whether Butt’s apology will influence the authorities' stance or if he will face further legal consequences.