‘I Will Not Bow to Hatred’: Deepak Becomes Social Media Star for Protecting Muslim Shopkeeper in Kotdwar

Deepak Kumar, who stood up for a Muslim shopkeeper in Kotdwar on Republic Day, has emerged as a social media sensation. The incident, which involved members of Bajrang Dal protesting the use of the word “Baba” in the shop’s name, was captured on video and widely circulated online.

The Incident
On 26 January, a group of Bajrang Dal members confronted Shoaib Ahmed, owner of a clothing store, over the shop’s name. Deepak, identifying himself as “Mohammad Deepak” in the viral video, intervened to protect the elderly shopkeeper. His actions prevented the confrontation from escalating, earning him praise online. Deepak has since stated that he is unafraid of consequences and will stand up for humanity whenever necessary.

Rise to Social Media Fame
Within a week, Deepak’s online following skyrocketed. His Facebook followers grew from 1,500 to over 4.3 lakh, and Instagram followers surged from around 1,000 to over 5 lakh.

External Threats and FIRs
Deepak clarified that the main threat came not from local residents but from outsiders. On 31 January, around 30-40 Bajrang Dal members from Dehradun and Rishikesh gathered near his gym and residence, raising communal slogans and recording videos. FIRs were filed against Deepak and his friend Vijay Rawat, citing sections for intentional harm, criminal intimidation, public insult, and unlawful assembly, based on a complaint by Bajrang Dal member Kamal Pal.

Two additional FIRs were registered: one on the shop owner’s complaint against two Bajrang Dal activists, and another by police against approximately 40 individuals for blocking NH-534 and raising communal slogans near Deepak’s gym. No arrests have been made yet, and authorities are identifying those involved.

Support from Political Leaders
Deepak has received widespread support online and from national political figures. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called him a “lion” and urged him not to fear. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi praised Deepak’s courage, calling his intervention a stand for humanity in the face of intimidation.

Bajrang Dal’s Response
Vikash Verma, state coordinator of Bajrang Dal, questioned the sudden online popularity of Deepak, alleging support from “liberals, communists, and anti-national elements” and claiming it was part of a larger political strategy ahead of the 2027 Uttarakhand Assembly elections.

Police Appeal for Calm
Kotdwar ASP Chandramohan Singh appealed to the public not to escalate the matter on social media. Police have set up checks and patrols, and the situation in the city remains normal.

Shopkeeper Speaks
Shoaib Ahmed, the shop owner, stated that his 42-year-old store had been named “Baba” because he liked it, and he had faced no objections until the Republic Day incident. He confirmed that the confrontation escalated only after outsiders intervened.