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On Monday, Punjab Police detained Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza, a well-known Islamic scholar and popular YouTube speaker, in Jhelum.
According to officials, the arrest was carried out under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance, specifically Section 16, after numerous complaints and grievances were lodged against him.
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Authorities confirmed that Mirza has been shifted to jail for formal proceedings.
Background of Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza
Mirza is a professional engineer and a former government employee, who rose to prominence through his YouTube channel. His lectures, often focused on religious debates and reinterpretations, have earned him over 3 million subscribers.
While he is admired by many for his analytical and research-based style, his views have also sparked significant backlash from religious groups.
Previous Legal Troubles
This is not the first time Mirza has faced legal action.
- In 2020, he was arrested on charges of hate speech against religious figures but was later released on bail.
- In April 2023, a case was registered against him under Section 295C (blasphemy) of the Pakistan Penal Code, accusing him of making disrespectful remarks about holy figures and the Quran.
- He was also criticized for allegedly comparing Ahmadis to Muslims, which fueled more controversy.
Current Case and Complaints
The latest case under the MPO Ordinance was initiated after claims that Mirza’s recent speeches and public remarks had stirred unrest and provoked community tensions.
Police sources said the move was aimed at maintaining law and order in the region amid growing public grievances.
A Polarizing Public Figure
Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza remains a divisive figure in Pakistan’s religious discourse.
- Supporters praise him for promoting independent thinking and challenging orthodox views.
- Critics, however, accuse him of using a confrontational tone and spreading controversial interpretations that risk fueling sectarian discord.
What’s Next?
Legal experts suggest that the MPO case may either lead to his continued detention or be challenged in court. Given Mirza’s history, the arrest is expected to ignite public debate both online and offline, particularly among his large YouTube audience.
