The Initial Confrontation
The events unfolded when Deepak Kumar, the gym owner, witnessed a group of men confronting a 70-year-old Muslim shopkeeper named Vakeel Ahmed on January
26. The shopkeeper was being pressured to change the name of his shop, 'Baba School Dress', which he had been running for three decades. Kumar, upon seeing the intimidation, questioned the group's actions, and in the heat of the moment, when asked his name, he declared, “My name is Mohammad Deepak,” conveying his solidarity and belief in equality. His intervention was prompted by the shopkeeper's harassment over the shop name and his actions have now triggered protests against him.
Protests Erupt in Kotdwar
Following Kumar's defense of the shopkeeper, a gathering of over 40 people assembled in Kotdwar on a Saturday to protest against him. The demonstrators voiced slogans against Kumar in response to his stance. Kumar had, in advance, notified the police about the potential for unrest, anticipating the backlash his actions might provoke. Despite informing the authorities, the protest proceeded, highlighting the tense atmosphere and the challenges faced when defending minority rights. Kumar stated that although the police were present, no FIR was registered despite a complaint filed.
Shopkeeper's Complaint Filed
After the incident, Vakeel Ahmed, the shopkeeper, filed a police complaint at the Kotdwar police station. The complaint references sections of the BNS, related to intimidation and harassment. Ahmed detailed the events of January 26 when individuals, claiming to be members of Bajrang Dal, demanded he change his shop's name. They also made threats. The shopkeeper, who has operated under the name 'Baba School Dress' for 30 years, is now seeking legal action against the accused.
Kumar's Perspective and Response
Deepak Kumar expressed that he acted because he believed in doing what was right. He stated that he stood by his words, despite the resistance and threats. Kumar was quoted as saying, "I intended to convey that I was an Indian and everyone was equal before the law.” The threats that have been directed towards his family have left him feeling intimidated. He claims that although the police were present at the protest, no immediate action was taken. He also claimed that he informed the police of the situation in advance.
Broader Community Concerns
Suryakant Dhasmana, the Congress senior vice-president, weighed in on the events, expressing his concern over the potential damage to Uttarakhand's image. He cited the recent instances of violence, including the attack on Kashmiri youths in Vikasnagar and the murder of a student from the Northeast. Dhasmana stated that these incidents are also disturbing communal harmony across the state and urgently need to be addressed.
Police Response and Actions
Police officials in the district stated that a complaint has been received, and an inquiry is underway before an FIR is filed. They have identified a few individuals and will proceed with legal action. The investigation aims to address the complaints made by both the shopkeeper and Deepak Kumar, while also managing the rising tensions within the community.
