UP Crime: Ex-Muslim YouTuber Saleem Wastik Critical After Loni Stabbing; Accused Killed in Encounter

YouTuber Saleem Wastik remains hospitalised in critical condition days after a brutal stabbing inside his Loni home, even as one of the accused was killed in a police encounter.

Wastik was attacked on Friday morning at his residence in Ashok Vihar Colony, Ghaziabad. According to investigators, two men allegedly entered the house wearing helmets and stabbed him multiple times in the neck and abdomen before fleeing on a motorcycle. Neighbours alerted authorities after hearing the disturbance, and he was first taken to a local hospital before being shifted to GTB Hospital in Delhi as his condition worsened.

Doctors earlier described his health status as extremely serious. Family members have remained at the hospital while police continue to investigate the case.

The attack sparked a swift response from the Uttar Pradesh Police after Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to take strict action. Ten special teams were formed to trace those named in the FIR, which was filed based on a complaint by Wastik's son, Usman.

On Sunday, police said Zeeshan, identified as one of the suspects and a resident of Amroha district, was shot during an exchange of fire and later died in hospital.

Wastik, known online for describing himself as an "Ex-Muslim," runs two YouTube channels and frequently appears in television debates discussing religious issues. While authorities have not formally stated a motive, investigators are examining all possible angles, including whether his public commentary played a role in the attack.