AMC opposition leader accuses resident of defamation extortion over viral Facebook video

The Ahmedabad Police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Rafiq alias Vyapari Sheikh for allegedly uploading defamatory videos about opposition councillor Shehzad Khan Nasir Khan Pathan and demanding a ransom to remove them. The complaint was lodged at the Isanpur police station, with charges including criminal intimidation, defamation, and extortion.

Pathan, a councillor and leader of the opposition in the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), claims that Sheikh, a Danilimda resident, broadcast a Facebook Live video containing abusive content, harming Pathan’s reputation. Pathan alleges Sheikh’s grievances stemmed from the demolition of illegal water and electricity supply businesses previously operated by Sheikh and his brother at Chandola Lake.

After the demolition, Sheikh purportedly began targeting Pathan on social media. Pathan’s complaint notes Sheikh had a prior case related to electricity theft. During an encounter on October 25, Sheikh allegedly told Pathan’s friend that he would cease posting negative content if paid ₹2 crore, along with additional demands for property and mosque management.

On October 26, Sheikh purportedly reiterated his demands in a phone call, threatening to release more videos if they were not met. The police have indicated that they are investigating technical evidence and mobile communication records and are exploring the possibility of additional individuals’ involvement in the alleged extortion.