Ghaziabad: In a harrowing incident that has sent shockwaves through the local community, Saleem Vastavik (also known as Saleem Wastik), a prominent “ex-Muslim” activist and social media commentator, was brutally attacked by unidentified assailants in the Loni area of Ghaziabad early Friday morning.
The attack occurred at approximately 6:00 AM near Vastavik’s residence. According to preliminary reports, the attackers intercepted him and used sharp-edged weapons to inflict severe injuries. Witnesses and family members indicate that the assault was targeted and calculated, leaving Vastavik with deep gashes on his neck, hands, and other parts of his body.
The assailants fled the scene immediately after the act, taking advantage of the early morning solitude. Local residents rushed to the spot upon hearing the commotion and assisted in transporting him to the hospital.
Saleem Vastavik was rushed to the Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital, where he is currently undergoing emergency treatment. Medical professionals have described his condition as critical, stating that he is “fighting for his life” due to significant blood loss and the severity of the wounds to his neck. He remains under close observation in the intensive care unit.
Vastavik has gained a significant following, and notoriety, on social media for his vocal renunciation of Islam. Identifying himself as an “ex-Muslim,” he frequently appeared in videos and media interviews to;
Critique fundamentalist belief systems and Islamic practices, Question the interpretations of the Quran and Challenge the influence of radical clerics. His associates and family members have expressed concerns that this vocal activism made him a target for fundamentalist elements. While the police have yet to officially name suspects, the investigation is reportedly looking into the digital threats Vastavik had received in the months leading up to the attack.
The Ghaziabad police have cordoned off the area where the attack took place and are scanning CCTV footage from nearby establishments to identify the “unknown persons” involved. A formal FIR is expected to be lodged as soon as initial statements are recorded.
Authorities have urged the public to maintain peace and refrain from spreading unverified rumors on social media as the investigation progresses.
Credit: OpIndia
