KARACHI (Web Desk) : A sessions court in Karachi on Friday recalled the interim bail earlier granted to YouTuber Rajab Butt in a case linked to allegedly hurting religious sentiments, after dismissing his bail application for non-prosecution due to his absence from court.
According to court proceedings, the matter came up before an additional district and sessions judge (Central) for confirmation of interim bail previously granted to the social media personality. During the hearing, Butt’s counsel submitted an application seeking condonation of his absence and requested exemption from personal appearance on medical grounds.
The defence maintained that the YouTuber was unable to attend proceedings due to health-related reasons and urged the court to accept the exemption plea and proceed with the hearing. However, the complainant opposed the request, arguing against further relief.
After hearing arguments from both sides, the court dismissed the exemption application and recalled its Dec 19, 2025 order through which interim bail had been granted.
In its written order, the court observed that the applicant had failed to ensure his presence without sufficient justification, leading to dismissal of the bail plea for non-prosecution.
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“The applicant was required to ensure his presence before the court, but he has failed to do so without sufficient cause,” the order stated, adding that the bail-before-arrest application stood dismissed.
The case stems from a complaint filed in January 2025 at Hyderi Market police station by lawyer Riaz Ali Solangi under Section 295-A of the Pakistan Penal Code, which deals with deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings by insulting religion or religious beliefs.
According to the complainant, the case relates to a viral video in which Rajab Butt allegedly showed disrespect towards prayer (Namaz), triggering criticism and legal action.
The matter had drawn widespread attention on social media following circulation of the video, prompting debate and reaction from various quarters.
Amid the controversy, Butt had earlier issued a public apology through a series of videos posted on his official Facebook page. In the three-part video message, he appeared alongside religious scholars belonging to different schools of thought and sought forgiveness over the controversy.
He had maintained that any offence caused was unintentional and expressed regret if his actions had hurt religious sentiments.
The apology videos had generated discussion online, with some viewing them as an attempt at reconciliation, while others maintained that the legal process should continue.
Friday’s court order marks a significant development in the case, as the recall of interim bail could expose the YouTuber to further legal proceedings in connection with the allegations.
Legal experts note that dismissal for non-prosecution in bail matters often results from failure to pursue relief diligently, particularly where personal attendance is required unless exempted by the court.
The case remains under legal scrutiny as proceedings continue, while the controversy surrounding the viral video and its fallout continues to draw public attention.
