Deepak Bajrangi Arrested in Kotdwar Hate Speech Case; Speaker Ritu Khanduri Speaks Out

Kotdwar, Uttarakhand: Tensions in Kotdwar over a controversy involving a clothing store named “Baba” have taken a new turn with the arrest of Deepak Bajrangi on charges of delivering hate speech. The arrest comes days after the issue sparked widespread local unrest.

The Arrest and Viral Video
On Republic Day, a dispute erupted over the naming of a clothing store run by a Muslim businessman. Bajrangi, 46, a resident of Gaadi Ghat in Kotdwar, was allegedly captured on video making provocative statements. Acting on the viral video, the police registered a case and arrested him from his residence on Thursday. Kotdwar Inspector Pradeep Negi confirmed that a heavy police presence has been deployed to maintain law and order.

Speaker Ritu Khanduri’s Statement
Uttarakhand Assembly Speaker and local legislator Ritu Khanduri expressed deep concern over the politicization of the incident. She said, “What is happening in Kotdwar is very unfortunate. Turning a social issue into a political one immediately is wrong. The atmosphere being portrayed makes it seem difficult to live here, which is a completely false impression. Our city is meant to be a place of harmony and peaceful coexistence.”

Khanduri appealed to those visiting Kotdwar, questioning their intentions: “Are they coming to resolve the issue, or just to fuel the narrative? Such narratives serve no purpose. We are fully capable of resolving these matters locally. We earnestly request people to refrain from coming to Kotdwar.”

Political Reactions
The case has drawn national attention, with Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi commenting in support of Deepak Bajrangi. The incident has intensified political debate, with social media and local politics amplifying the controversy.

Security Measures
SP Sarvesh Panwar is currently camping in Kotdwar to monitor the situation. He emphasized that no one will be allowed to take the law into their own hands or disturb communal harmony. The police are keeping a close watch on developments to ensure peace in the area.

Background of the Controversy
The conflict started when Bajrang Dal activists demanded the renaming of the shop “Baba.” Deepak Kumar, who worked in a nearby gym, reportedly intervened and dispersed the activists. Following the viral spread of the video, Bajrangi became a target of attacks. Initially, he had identified himself as Mohammad Deepak. After the attacks, authorities assured him of protection.