NEW DELHI: Leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday heaped praises for Deepak Kumar — Kotdwar man who identified himself as “Mohammad Deepak” while confronting a group of Bajrang Dal members to shield a Muslim shopkeeper.In a social media post on X, Rahul said that Deepak has defended the tricolour and Constitution by standing firm against hate.”In the hearts of millions of Indians lies the ideology of harmony and love, yet there is also fear in their minds – Deepak has shown the way to all of them with his courage,” Rahul said.”Those who try to spread hate and intimidate society are, in truth, cowards – never fear them. Deepak has defended our tricolour and our Constitution. He stood firm against hate, protected the weak – there is no greater patriotism than this,” he added.This comes after “Mohammed Deepak” met the Congress leader at his Delhi residence on Monday.After the meeting, Deepak said that Rahul assured him that what he did was good and that he should not be afraid.”Rahul Gandhi ji had called me here today. He spoke to my wife and family, and assured me that what I did was good and that I should not have any fear. He also said that he would travel to Kotdwar and take a membership in my gym,” Deepak said.”Today, the situation (in Kotdwar) is better than before. Rahul ji made me meet Sonia ji as well. I have nothing to do with politics. It is good to know that someone understands that I raised my voice for humanity,” he added.In January, Bajrang Dal activists staged a protest outside the ‘Baba’ clothing store on Patel Marg, demanding that its 70-year-old owner, Vakil Ahmed, change the shop’s name. Clashes broke out between the protesters as Deepak, who is a friend of Ahmed’s son, intervened, prompting police action.The situation was brought under control, and police later registered three separate FIRs in connection with the incidents.Tensions flared again after a video circulated by the Hindu Raksha Dal showed a man threatening to march to Kotdwara on February 12 to “teach Deepak a lesson.”The local administration stepped up security to prevent further escalation. Additional superintendent of police Chandra Mohan Singh said no one would be allowed to disturb peace in the town and warned of strict action against those attempting to incite trouble.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMassive Row Erupts As Video Shows Shivaji’s Image Used As Washroom Sign In Haryana Banquet HallDid Donald Trump Save Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Life? What US President Said, And What He MeantPM Modi Calls Israel PM ‘Dear Friend’ Ahead Of Key Visit, Netanyahu Pushes India As Key Hexagon AllyEx-Israeli Envoy Highlights Shift In India’s FTA Approach, Strong Israel Ties Ahead Of Modi’s VisitFrom Gaza Tensions to Trade Deals; Modi’s High-Stakes Israel Tour Explained’India to Be 3rd Largest Economy’: Yogi Woos Investors at Singapore RoadshowShirtless Protest: Youth Congress Chief Arrested; Family’s Medical Emergency Ends In Air TragedyIndia’s Air Power on Full Display as IAF Conducts Spectacular Vayushakti Drill in PokharanIndian Students In Iran Seek Govt Help As March Exams Prevent Return Amid UnrestFrom Epstein Files to Trade Deal, Rahul Gandhi Launches All-Out Attack on PM Modi123Photostories10 smart ways to add banana to your daily breakfastFrom Pythagoras to Euler: 5 math equations that changed the world5 ways you can clear AI-led interviews in 20268 baby names inspired by visionaries and world‑changers10 Indian dishes that reduce gas and bloating plus 3 pachak recipes insideShahid Kapoor birthday special: ‘Kabir Singh’, ‘Padmaavat’, ‘Jab We Met’, must-watch films on OTTWhy March is the best time for outdoor adventures in Delhi: Ultimate guide to spring travelLord Ganesha mantras to remove obstacles5 birds in the wild that can change genderShahid Kapoor birthday special: Best performances of the actor to watch on OTT123Hot PicksStock Market crashIBM share price crashGold rate todayKerala name changeIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingMarvels Wolverine Release DateAJ Styles and Wendy Jones Net WorthQuinn HughesMLB Trade RumorsRondale MooreConnor HellebuyckMikko RantanenJosh Allen WifeDallas Mavericks vs Brooklyn NetsWho is Cam Reading
NEW DELHI: Leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday heaped praises for Deepak Kumar — Kotdwar man who identified himself as “Mohammad Deepak” while confronting a group of Bajrang Dal members to shield a Muslim shopkeeper.In a social media post on X, Rahul said that Deepak has defended the tricolour and Constitution by standing firm against hate.“In the hearts of millions of Indians lies the ideology of harmony and love, yet there is also fear in their minds – Deepak has shown the way to all of them with his courage,” Rahul said.“Those who try to spread hate and intimidate society are, in truth, cowards – never fear them. Deepak has defended our tricolour and our Constitution. He stood firm against hate, protected the weak – there is no greater patriotism than this,” he added.This comes after “Mohammed Deepak” met the Congress leader at his Delhi residence on Monday.After the meeting, Deepak said that Rahul assured him that what he did was good and that he should not be afraid.“Rahul Gandhi ji had called me here today. He spoke to my wife and family, and assured me that what I did was good and that I should not have any fear. He also said that he would travel to Kotdwar and take a membership in my gym,” Deepak said.“Today, the situation (in Kotdwar) is better than before. Rahul ji made me meet Sonia ji as well. I have nothing to do with politics. It is good to know that someone understands that I raised my voice for humanity,” he added.In January, Bajrang Dal activists staged a protest outside the ‘Baba’ clothing store on Patel Marg, demanding that its 70-year-old owner, Vakil Ahmed, change the shop’s name. Clashes broke out between the protesters as Deepak, who is a friend of Ahmed’s son, intervened, prompting police action.The situation was brought under control, and police later registered three separate FIRs in connection with the incidents.Tensions flared again after a video circulated by the Hindu Raksha Dal showed a man threatening to march to Kotdwara on February 12 to “teach Deepak a lesson.”The local administration stepped up security to prevent further escalation. Additional superintendent of police Chandra Mohan Singh said no one would be allowed to disturb peace in the town and warned of strict action against those attempting to incite trouble.
