Popular ex-Muslim voice and TV panelist fighting for life following violent assault in Uttar Pradesh.
GHAZIABAD — Popular YouTuber and television panelist Saleem Wastik is currently battling for his life. The 50-year-old creator remains in critical condition following a violent stabbing at his home on Friday, February 27, 2026. The incident took place in the Ashok Vihar Colony of Loni, Uttar Pradesh.
According to local authorities, the attack occurred early Friday morning. Two unidentified men arrived on a motorcycle without a number plate. Both individuals wore helmets to conceal their identities. They entered the ground-floor office where Wastik was working. The assailants then stabbed him multiple times in the neck and abdomen.
Witnesses reported that the attackers attempted to slit his throat during the struggle. Family members and neighbors rushed to the scene after hearing the commotion. They immediately moved Wastik to a nearby 50-bed hospital for emergency care. However, doctors referred him to Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital in Delhi due to his life-threatening injuries.
Also Read : UP Govt to Release February Salaries Before Holi 2026: Teachers and Staff to Get Timely Payments
Police Launch Investigation into Targeted Assault
The Ghaziabad Police received an emergency alert at approximately 8:00 am via Dial 112. Officers arrived promptly to secure the crime scene in the Ali Garden area. They confirmed the victim’s identity as Salim, the son of Noor Hasan.
Subsequently, Wastik’s son, Usman, filed a formal police complaint. This led to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) at the Loni Police Station. The complaint names several individuals, including Ashfaq, Sonu, and Shahrukh Neta. It also mentions Bhati Builder and a local AIMIM leader named Ajgar.
Usman alleges that these individuals orchestrated the hit on his father. Consequently, the police have deployed multiple teams to investigate these claims. They are currently scanning CCTV footage from the vicinity to trace the motorcycle’s route. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also called for strict action against those responsible.
Motive Probed Amid Religious Controversy
Saleem Wastik is a well-known figure on social media and national television. He gained a following for publicly identifying as an ex-Muslim. Moreover, his videos often criticized orthodox religious practices and radicalism. Many believe his outspoken views made him a target for extremists.
Loni ACP Siddhartha Gautam stated that the motive remains under investigation. However, preliminary findings suggest a link to his online content. Wastik had previously received threats for his renunciation of faith. Furthermore, his recent appearances on debate panels had sparked heated discussions online.
Friends of the YouTuber describe him as a brave voice for reform. They noted that he continued his work despite the rising tensions. Meanwhile, the police are maintaining a heavy presence in the area to prevent any communal unrest. They have urged the public not to spread unverified rumors on social media platforms.
A Growing Pattern of Attacks on Dissenters
This attack highlights the risks faced by activists in the region. Many supporters have expressed outrage over the lack of security for outspoken creators. Transitioning to safety has become a major concern for those who question religious norms.
Additionally, social media groups are being monitored for any celebratory messages regarding the attack. Some reports suggest that a video of the assault was briefly circulated in private groups. Police are working with cyber cells to identify the origin of these clips.
Wastik remains under constant medical supervision at GTB Hospital. His family continues to ask for prayers as he undergoes further surgeries. The community now waits for the police to make the first set of arrests.