Hello friends,

I am an ex-Muslim. Years ago, I left Islam because for me, nothing is more important than truth and reason. I raised questions about those aspects of the Quran, Hadith, and Islamic traditions that seem inhumane and inconsistent in today’s time—women’s rights, conflicts with science, and responding to criticism with violence. Today, I am writing about the news of Salim Wastik, which is as painful and concerning as my own life experiences.

On Friday, during the month of Ramadan, right after the morning prayer, a life-threatening attack took place on Salim in the Loni area of Ghaziabad (Ashok Vihar Colony/Ali Garden). Two bike-riding assailants entered his home/office and stabbed him multiple times in the throat, stomach, chest, and neck with knives. Covered in blood, Salim collapsed on the spot. The attackers fled. He was immediately admitted to GTB Hospital in Delhi, where his condition remains critical. The police are investigating, but so far, there is no solid identification of the attackers.

Photo credit- The quote

Who is Salim? An open voice that makes extremists uncomfortable

Salim Wastik (also known as Salim Warsi) identifies himself as an ex-Muslim and runs the YouTube channel ‘Salim Wastik 0007’, which has around 28,000 subscribers. He openly speaks about the evils in Islam, the wrong interpretations by Maulvis, and extremism. He has participated in TV shows and challenged Maulanas in public debates. He holds a reformist stance—advocating for modernizing Islam, giving equality to women, and making space for science. But these very things sting the extremists.

The news of the attack clearly shows that this is an attempt to silence his voice. His associates and members of the ex-Muslim community are saying that this is a result of Islamic extremism. An attack right after the morning prayer—it doesn’t seem like a coincidence. It shows that even ‘sacred’ times can be used for violence.

As an ex-Muslim, I know that when you leave Islam or criticize it, first come debates, then threats, and finally, the path of violence. Hadiths mention the death penalty for a Murtad (apostate), and this idea is still alive in many places. Even in a secular country like India, such attacks are happening. People like Salim would probably have been safe if they had stayed silent, but they didn’t remain silent—because silence only strengthens extremism.

Where is the problem? And what should we do?

The problem is not in the core teachings of Islam, but in its rigid, intolerant interpretations. Extremists see any question or reform as an ‘attack on Islam’. If your faith is so strong, why fear criticism? Debate, provide arguments, but why knives?

This is a time for the ex-Muslim community to unite. Salim’s life is at stake. We need to:
– Raise our voice on social media, while staying safe.
– Demand swift investigation and protection from the police and government.
– Share our stories so that the feeling of isolation reduces.
– Remember—if Salim is silenced, the next number could be someone else’s.

Salim brother, get well soon. Your courage is an example for all of us. We stand with you.

If you are also an ex-Muslim, or want to say something on this issue, share your opinion in the comments. Silence encourages violence—speaking up is necessary.

Thank you,