Deepak, who is also referred to as “Mohammad Deepak,” confronted members of the Bajrang Dal after they reportedly objected to a 70-year-old Muslim shopkeeper using the word “Baba” in his store’s name. The right-wing group claimed that the term was exclusively Hindu and demanded that the shopkeeper remove it.
Congress Praises Deepak’s Stand
Sharing photographs of the meeting on social media platform X, the Indian National Congress stated that Rahul Gandhi had met Deepak and praised his actions.
“Mohammad Deepak has set an example of unity, brotherhood, and courage — one that will inspire every young person in the country to stand against injustice and hatred,” the party said in its post.
The statement further described Deepak as a “warrior of the ‘Mohabbat ki dukaan’,” adding that the entire nation was proud of him.
Background of the Incident
The controversy began in January when activists from the Bajrang Dal staged a protest outside the ‘Baba’ clothing store located on Patel Marg in Kotdwar. The protesters demanded that the shop’s owner, Vakil Ahmed, change the name of his establishment.
The situation escalated into clashes between the protesters, Ahmed, and Deepak — who is reportedly a friend of Ahmed’s son — leading to police intervention. Authorities brought the situation under control and later registered three separate FIRs in connection with the incident.
Tensions resurfaced after a video circulated by the Hindu Raksha Dal showed a man threatening to march to Kotdwar on February 12 to “teach Deepak a lesson.”
Administration Steps In
In response to the renewed tensions, local authorities strengthened security measures across the town. Additional Superintendent of Police Chandra Mohan Singh stated that no one would be allowed to disturb the peace in Kotdwar and warned of strict action against those attempting to incite unrest.
The administration’s swift action helped prevent further escalation, even as the issue continued to spark debate on social media and political platforms.
