Kotdwar, Uttarakhand: Deepak Kumar, who identified himself as “Mohammad Deepak” while confronting a group accused of harassing an elderly Muslim shopkeeper, is receiving support from across India after facing backlash and a sharp fall in business.
The incident took place on Republic Day when members of Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal objected to the name of a four decade old garment store, Baba School Dress and Matching Centre, owned by 71 year old Wakeel Ahmed. They reportedly pressured him to change the shop’s name by highlighting his religion. As tensions rose outside the store, Deepak intervened. A video of him saying, “Mera naam Muhammad Deepak,” spread widely on social media and drew national attention.
Following the episode, Deepak faced protests, online and offline harassment, and a police FIR. His family also suffered. His wife and daughter fell ill after witnessing the unrest.
His gym, Hulk, located at Jhanda Chauk in Kotdwar, earlier had around 150 members. Membership has now dropped to 15 to 20, according to trainer Deepak Singh. Police presence outside the gym has raised fear among members, leading many to leave.
Support has followed. Rajya Sabha member John Brittas visited Deepak and purchased a one year membership at the gym. Social media users have sought account details to extend financial help. Some suggested he start online training sessions, drawing encouragement from public figures. Jaipur based social activist Avi Dandiya offered to sponsor one month free membership for the first 100 applicants.
Despite setbacks, Deepak continues to open his gym before sunrise each day, determined to rebuild.
