John Brittas said that both Deepak Kumar and Vakil Ahmed are facing an informal economic boycott since the harassment incident by the right-wing group. File | Photo credit: Sansad TV
Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) MP John Brittas visited Kotdwar in Uttarakhand on Sunday (February 8, 2026) and expressed solidarity with gym owner Deepak Kumar, who made headlines after he stepped in to protect an elderly Muslim businessman 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 organizations in Kotdwar protested against the name of a clothing store ‘Baba School Garments’ owned by Mr. Ahmed. They argued that the word “Baba” is associated with Hindu religious tradition and should not be used by a Muslim businessman, especially because of its perceived association with the city’s Siddhabali Baba Hanuman temple. During the confrontation, Mr. Kumar intervened and identified himself as Mohammed Deepak.
“In the divisive times we live in, it is essential that we protect and nurture such individuals. We cannot let Deepak Kumar, who symbolized the secular culture of our country, stand alone,” said Mr. Brittas, who also brought a year’s membership to Mr. Kumar’s gym and clothes from Mr. Ahmed’s store.
Brittas said that since the incident, both Mr. Kumar and Mr. Ahmed have faced an informal economic boycott. While Mr Kumar’s gym has remained largely empty, Mr Ahmed’s shop also has a deserted look.
Published – 08 Feb 2026 21:19 IST
