Indian Vlogger Malik SD Khan Detained in Turkey Over Offensive Remarks, Issues Public Apology
An Indian content creator has reportedly been taken into custody by Turkish authorities after a public outcry over his allegedly offensive remarks about Turkish women.
Malik SD Khan, who is widely known online as “Malik Swashbuckler”, became the subject of intense backlash when multiple videos containing sexually explicit and derogatory comments surfaced on his YouTube channel.
Offensive Remarks Spark Outrage
Several of the now-deleted videos featured Malik using Hindi to make derogatory comments about Turkish women.
In one particularly disturbing clip, he reportedly asked viewers if he should “rape her that night”, referring to a Turkish woman.
These videos, although spoken in Hindi, were flagged by Turkish users online, who understood the content and raised concerns, which led to widespread outrage across the country.
Despite removing the controversial content and deleting his accounts from YouTube and Instagram, the videos continue to circulate online. According to Turkiye Today, Malik was taken into custody following complaints from the public.
Apology Posted on Social Media
Following the uproar, a video was posted to Malik’s YouTube, Instagram, and X accounts. In it, he issued an apology directed at Turkish women. “I sincerely apologise from the bottom of my heart. I never intended to hurt or upset anyone. If my words or actions have harmed someone, please know that it was completely unintentional.
Knowing that I have hurt people truly makes me very sad,” he said in Turkish, according to a translated post.
He further added, “I have reflected on myself and promise to be much more careful from now on. With respect and love. I truly and sincerely apologise.”
The apology, which lasted nearly two minutes, appeared to be an attempt to calm the public outrage. However, Turkish authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding his reported detention or the status of any ongoing investigation.
Abusive Behaviour Caught on Camera
The controversy deepened after more clips emerged, showing Malik using offensive language and engaging in disrespectful behavior. In one clip, he was seen objectifying a Turkish woman and using the Hindi slang word “maal” to describe her.
In another, he entered a Turkish shop and angrily questioned the absence of the Indian flag, using foul language towards the shopkeeper.
His remarks and actions caused significant distress online. Social media users in Turkey demanded legal action against him for his offensive and inappropriate behavior.
Political Tensions Add Fuel to the Fire
This incident comes amid heightened tensions between India and Turkey. Calls for boycotting Turkey had recently emerged in India due to Ankara’s military support for Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack.
The timing of the YouTuber’s controversial videos and the resulting backlash further intensified the diplomatic strain between the two nations.
The controversy gained traction just as Indian social media had begun calling for travel boycotts of Turkey. The videos went viral shortly afterward, with many speculating that the YouTuber believed speaking in Hindi would shield him from consequences abroad.
Widespread Condemnation Continues
Social media users across platforms have widely condemned Malik’s actions.
In one post shared by Julia Kendrick on X, she stated, “Turkish cops have nicked an Indian tourist after he posted offensive videos about Turkey on his YouTube channel, Malik Swashbuckler. He was caught slagging off Turkish women in Hindi, thinking they wouldn’t understand.”
Turkish media outlet Turkiye Today confirmed on May 31 that Malik had been detained. However, there is still no official word from Turkish authorities.
No Official Statement Yet
As of now, Turkish police have not released any formal comment on the matter or provided clarity on the YouTuber’s current status. It remains unclear whether he will face legal proceedings or deportation.
Malik’s case has become a flashpoint, not only for social media accountability but also for cultural sensitivity and the importance of respectful conduct while travelling abroad. His videos, originally intended for entertainment, have instead ignited a debate on the boundaries of content creation and cultural decency.
