Kotdwar Shop Name Dispute: Tension Erupts Over ‘Baba’ Signboard, Gym Owner Intervenes to Stop Escalation

Dehradun/Kotdwar:
Tension briefly flared in Kotdwar town of Pauri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand, after members of a right-wing organisation objected to a clothing shop allegedly owned by a Muslim trader using the name “Baba”. The incident, which occurred on January 26, was captured on video and has since gone viral on social media.

The controversy erupted on Patel Marg, where a garment shop named “Baba School Dress and Matching Centre” has been operating. Members of Bajrang Dal reached the shop and demanded that the name be changed, claiming religious sentiments were being hurt.

Shop Owner Claims 30-Year-Old Business

The shop is run by Shoaib Ahmed, who claimed that the establishment has been operating under the same name for nearly three decades. He pointed out that his name was clearly displayed on the shop’s signboard and said he was willing to remove the board if it offended any community.

Protesters, however, alleged that the shop owner had earlier been asked multiple times to change the name but had not complied.

Gym Operator ‘Mohammad Deepak’ Intervenes

During the confrontation, a man working at a nearby gym intervened and objected to the protest. When asked his name, he identified himself as Mohammad Deepak. He questioned the objection, stating that the use of the word “Baba” was common and not exclusive to any one community.

An argument followed between Deepak and the protesters, escalating into a physical scuffle. Deepak and his associates reportedly pushed the protesters away from the shop, preventing further escalation.

No Complaint Filed Yet

Despite the altercation, no formal complaint has been lodged by either side. Kotdwar Police Station in-charge Pradeep Negi said that the matter is under investigation and warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found disturbing communal harmony.

Religious Context of the Area

Kotdwar is home to the renowned Siddhbali Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, which holds deep religious significance for devotees across Uttarakhand and beyond. Due to local religious traditions, many shops and establishments in the town commonly use the word “Baba” in their names, a practice rooted in regional faith and history associated with Guru Gorakhnath and the Nath tradition.

Police officials said efforts are being made to ensure peace and prevent misinformation from spreading through social media.