Prominent YouTuber Arrested in Pakistan for 'Defaming Institutions'

Orya Maqbool Jan, a well-known critic of the Pakistan Army and YouTuber, was arrested in Punjab province for reportedly inciting religious hatred and defaming institutions. His apprehension follows a pattern of recent arrests and abductions of YouTubers and journalists criticized government and military authorities.

A notable YouTuber and critic of the Pakistan Army, Orya Maqbool Jan, has been apprehended in Punjab province on allegations of spreading 'religious hatred' and 'defaming institutions,' particularly the military, according to authorities on Thursday.

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) cybercrime wing conducted a raid at Jan's residence in Lahore on Thursday, taking him into custody for inciting religious hatred against a significant personality and institutions. Jan, renowned as a political commentator, columnist, poet, playwright, and former civil servant, boasts over one million subscribers on his YouTube channel.

This arrest is part of a troubling trend, coming just a week after another YouTuber and comedian, Aun Ali Khosa, was allegedly abducted by intelligence agencies for criticizing Shehbaz Sharif's government. These events highlight the increasing pressures on journalists and social media activists in Pakistan who dare to speak out against the authorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)