CPI(M) leader Brittas meets Uttarakhand gym owner Deepak, shopkeeper, after alleged right-wing harassment

Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] MP John Brittas on Sunday (February 8, 2026) visited Kotdwar in Uttarakhand, extending solidarity with gym owner Deepak Kumar who made headlines after stepping in to protect an elderly Muslim shopkeeper from alleged harassment by a right-wing group.

The Rajya Sabha member met Mr. Kumar and Vakil Ahmed, who faced the alleged harassment. The incident took place on January 26, when some Hindu organisations in Kotdwar objected to the name of the garment shop, ‘Baba School Garments’, owned by Mr. Ahmed. They argued that the word ‘Baba’ is linked to Hindu religious tradition and should not be used by a Muslim shopkeeper, particularly because of its perceived association with the Siddhabali Baba Hanuman temple in the town. During the confrontation, Mr. Kumar intervened, identifying himself as Mohammed Deepak.

“In the divisive times we live in, it is crucial that we protect and nurture such individuals. We cannot let Deepak Kumar, who symbolised the secular culture of our country, stand alone,” said Mr. Brittas, who also brought an annual membership at Mr. Kumar’s gym and clothes from Mr. Ahmed’s shop.

Mr. Brittas said that since the incident, both Mr. Kumar and Mr. Ahmed have been facing an informal economic boycott. While Mr. Kumar’s gym has remained largely empty, Mr. Ahmed’s shop has also worn a deserted look.