Popular Ex-Muslim YouTuber and Sanatan Defender Saleem Wastik Stabbed by Suspected Jihadi Extremists in Ghaziabad; Condition Serious.

Upananda Brahmachari | HENB | New Delhi | Feb 28, 2026:: Popular YouTuber and television debate panelist Saleem Wastik was critically injured after being stabbed multiple times by two unidentified assailants at his residence in Ghaziabad’s Loni area on Friday morning. Police have launched an investigation into the attack, which has triggered widespread reactions and debate over freedom of expression and the safety of outspoken public figures.

The Attack

According to police sources, the incident occurred around 8:00 a.m. at Wastik’s office, located within his home in Ashok Vihar Colony under the Loni police station area. Two men reportedly arrived on a motorcycle, entered the premises while wearing helmets, and allegedly stabbed Wastik in the neck and abdomen before fleeing the scene.

Family members and local residents rushed him to a nearby hospital. Due to the severity of his injuries, doctors referred him to Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital in Delhi, where his condition has been described by sources as “extremely serious.”

Police responded to a distress call made through Dial 112 and reached the Ali Garden area shortly thereafter. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and collecting evidence to identify the attackers. Officials have stated that the motive behind the attack has not yet been established.

Allegations of Prior Threats

In the aftermath of the attack, several supporters and online commentators have alleged that Wastik had previously received life threats from individuals they describe as suspected “jihadi” elements because of his outspoken criticism of Islamic theology and his public identity as an ex-Muslim. However, police have not confirmed any link between such alleged threats and Friday’s assault and have urged the public not to speculate while the investigation is ongoing.

Some commentators have also drawn parallels between this incident and the 2019 murder of Hindu Mahasabha leader Kamlesh Tiwari, who was killed in Lucknow after making controversial remarks about Islam. Tiwari’s killing had sparked national debate over religious expression and security for individuals who publicly criticize religious doctrines. While supporters of Wastik have described the present attack as reminiscent of that case, authorities have not indicated any direct connection between the two incidents.

Who Is Saleem Wastik?

Saleem Wastik is a YouTuber, social media commentator, and frequent participant in televised debates on religion and social issues. He publicly identifies as an ex-Muslim and has been vocal in expressing critical views about Islamic teachings and practices. In recent years, he described himself as a sympathizer of Hinduism and an advocate of the Sanatan tradition.

Wastik runs two YouTube channels featuring nearly 179 videos and more than 28,000 subscribers. His content often addresses religious doctrine, reform, and interfaith debates. Supporters regard him as a bold critic of religious orthodoxy, while critics have challenged both his interpretations and tone. As an authority on Islamic jurisprudence and a indepth researcher of the Quran, Wastik often defeated his opponents in Islamic debates with great ease.

What Is an Ex-Muslim?

An “ex-Muslim” is a person who previously followed Islam but no longer identifies as Muslim. The term reflects a change in religious belief and does not pertain to ethnicity or cultural background. Like “ex-Christian” or “atheist,” it is a self-chosen identity based on personal faith.

Globally, millions of individuals have changed or left their religions, according to research by the Pew Research Center. In some parts of the world, apostasy—the act of leaving one’s religion—can carry significant social stigma or even legal consequences.

The broader ex-Muslim movement includes activists and commentators such as Maryam Namazie, Zafar Heretic, Harris Sultan, Adam Seeker, Ali Sina, and Ayaan Hirsi Ali. One activist known as Sahil, who has nearly 600,000 subscribers on YouTube and has spoken publicly about his own religious journey, addressed the attack in a video statement. “It was a brutal attack. There were reports that he succumbed to his injuries, but this isn’t true,” Sahil said, confirming that Wastik remains alive but in critical condition.

Public Reaction and Ongoing Investigation

The incident has prompted strong reactions on social media. Activist Puneet Sahani wrote on X: “Very distressed from hearing about the brutal attack on Saleem Wastik. He was one of my biggest inspirations in speaking about the truth of my religious tradition… Pray that he survives.”

While some groups have linked the attack to Wastik’s religious views and public stance as an ex-Muslim and Hindu sympathizer, authorities have emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages. Police have reiterated their commitment to conducting a thorough and impartial probe.

As Saleem Wastik continues to battle for his life, the attack has intensified discussions around religious discourse, social media activism, and the security of controversial commentators in India. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.