Controversial Activist Waqar H. Bhatti Under Scrutiny for Provocative Social Media Activities

ANN NEWS

Jammu: Waqar H. Bhatti, a self-proclaimed social activist from Saaj Thanamadi in Rajouri district, now residing in Channi Rama, Jammu, is facing backlash for his controversial activities and inflammatory social media posts. Bhatti, who holds leadership positions in the Jammu and Kashmir Socio-Political Activist Movement (JKSPAM) and J&K Awami-e-Tehreek Party, is known for his outspoken opposition to right-wing ideologies and government policies.

However, his statements and actions have often sparked criticism for their potential to incite communal discord.

In the 2024 Kokernag (ST) Assembly elections, Bhatti contested and garnered only 847 votes, underscoring his limited political influence. Despite this, he has maintained an active presence on social media platforms, regularly posting content critical of the government, particularly the BJP.

Bhatti has faced numerous legal challenges over the years due to his provocative activities. In 2018, he was booked under Section 153A of the Indian Penal Code in Gwalior for promoting enmity between communities through a video targeting RSS leaders. He has also been implicated in cases involving sedition, IT Act violations, and communal incitement, with FIRs lodged in Jammu and Rajouri.

One of Bhatti’s most contentious actions was glorifying slain Hizb-ul-Mujahideen terrorist Mannan Bashir Wani, referring to him as a “martyr.” Such remarks have been condemned for their potential to radicalize youth and disrupt social harmony in the region.

Waqar Bhatti actively manages multiple social media accounts, including on platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. His posts often criticize the government’s policies, particularly after the abrogation of Article 370, and focus on issues such as the challenges faced by Kashmiri youth and the Rohingya refugees in Jammu.

A recent post on X (formerly Twitter) accused “Bhagwa terrorists” of attacking a mosque in Maharashtra and called for Muslim unity against such actions. The video, which received over 52,000 views, drew significant criticism for its divisive rhetoric and potential to incite communal violence.

Bhatti’s activism has been clouded by allegations of fraud. Reports suggest he deceived several youth from his village by promising government jobs in exchange for money, leading to distrust within his community. Critics have labeled him a “self-styled activist” who seeks attention through incendiary and polarizing statements.

The provocative nature of Waqar Bhatti’s statements and social media activity has prompted demands for stricter monitoring and action to curb his influence. His detractors argue that his actions threaten communal harmony and spread misinformation,