Rajab Butt, a well-known Pakistani YouTuber, has once again found himself at the center of controversy. Over the years, he has been involved in multiple disputes, but his latest troubles have sparked nationwide debate. His decision to launch a perfume named “295” landed him in legal trouble, as it referenced Pakistan’s blasphemy law, a highly sensitive subject. Following the backlash, FIRs were filed against him, and he quickly found himself embroiled in a legal and social media storm.
Amidst the chaos, Rajab Butt and his family traveled to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah. However, instead of finding spiritual peace, he has once again drawn criticism—this time for his family’s use of wheelchairs during the pilgrimage.
The ‘295’ Perfume Controversy
Rajab Butt’s troubles began when he launched a fragrance titled “295 Men.” The name referred to Section 295 of Pakistan’s Penal Code, which deals with blasphemy. Given the sensitivity of the topic, the public reaction was swift and unforgiving. Many people, particularly religious groups, accused Butt of trivializing a serious issue.
In response to the backlash, he issued a public apology, holding the Quran in a video message. He expressed regret, stating that he did not intend to offend anyone and promised to discontinue the perfume. Despite this, the FIRs against him remained active, and his legal troubles continued to escalate.
Rajab Butt’s Umrah and the Wheelchair Debate
While dealing with these legal issues, Butt and his family decided to perform Umrah. During their pilgrimage, they were photographed using wheelchairs for Sa’i—the ritual walk between the hills of Safa and Marwah. The images quickly went viral, triggering another wave of criticism.
Many questioned why seemingly healthy, young individuals were using wheelchairs meant for those who are elderly or physically disabled. Social media platforms were flooded with comments like:
- “Are they disabled? Why do they need wheelchairs?”
- “This is disrespectful to those who actually need these facilities.”
Despite the backlash, some people defended Butt and his family, pointing out that using a wheelchair is not prohibited and is sometimes a personal choice. Others suggested that they might have been tired or had a medical condition not visible to the public.
Facilities for Disabled Pilgrims in Umrah
The Saudi government provides various facilities to ensure that people with disabilities can comfortably perform Umrah. These include:
- Free wheelchair services at the Grand Mosque
- Electric scooters for rent
- Dedicated wheelchair-accessible paths
- Elevators and ramps
- Accessible bathrooms
Although these services are meant for those who need assistance, their use by individuals who appear to be healthy raises ethical questions about whether they are being misused.
Public Reactions and the Responsibility of Influencers
As a public figure, Rajab Butt is constantly under scrutiny. His actions, whether intentional or not, carry weight, influencing his millions of followers. While performing Umrah should be a personal and spiritual experience, it has instead turned into another controversy.
This incident highlights the increasing role of social media in shaping public perception. Every move by celebrities and influencers is dissected, sometimes leading to harsh judgments. It also brings up important conversations about religious sensitivities, ethical behavior, and the responsibilities of public figures.
Final Thoughts
Rajab Butt’s journey—from launching a controversial perfume to facing criticism over his Umrah—demonstrates how quickly public sentiment can shift. While he sought redemption through his pilgrimage, the wheelchair debate has overshadowed his spiritual journey. This incident serves as a reminder that, in today’s digital world, every action is watched, discussed, and often criticized.