Rahul Gandhi Praises Gym Trainer for Courage Amid Communal Tensions
In a recent meeting, Rahul Gandhi commended gym trainer Deepak Kumar for his bravery in the face of communal tensions sparked by a shop dispute. Gandhi emphasized the importance of courage and love in society, urging people not to fear those who spread hatred. The incident, which escalated into protests, involved a conflict over a shop's name, leading to police action. Deepak shared his perspective on the events, asserting that the altercation began with disrespectful behavior from others. This situation highlights ongoing issues of communal harmony in India.
Feb 25, 2026, 17:41 IST
Rahul Gandhi Commends Gym Trainer's Bravery
On Wednesday, Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, expressed admiration for gym trainer Deepak Kumar, highlighting his bravery and patriotism. Sharing a video of their meeting, Gandhi noted that the ideals of harmony and love resonate in the hearts of millions of Indians, yet there exists a fear among them. He emphasized that Deepak has shown the right path through his courage. Gandhi further stated that those who attempt to spread hatred and instill fear in society are, in fact, cowards, and urged people not to fear them. Deepak has defended the national flag and our Constitution, standing firmly against hatred to protect the vulnerable, which he described as the highest form of patriotism.
Background of the Incident
Earlier on Monday, Rahul Gandhi met with Deepak, who gained attention for his actions in defense of a shop in Kotdwar's Ahmad Baba School Dress and Matching Center last month. This incident occurred on January 26, when a group demanded the shopkeeper change the name of his shop. When the shopkeeper refused, a dispute ensued. Reports indicate that gym trainer Deepak Kumar confronted the crowd, leading to protests that began on January 31.
Police Response and Community Tensions
Based on video evidence, the police registered an FIR and urged the public not to sensationalize the incident on social media. SSP of Pauri Garhwal, Sarvesh Pawar, stated that cases were filed based on complaints from both parties. He informed that on January 31, protesters blocked the road near Deepak Kumar's residence. The SSP explained that the conflict arose over the shop's name change on January 26, and both sides had lodged complaints, prompting the police to take action. He appealed to everyone to maintain peace and not disrupt communal harmony, warning that strict legal action would be taken against those found guilty.
Deepak Kumar's Account of the Incident
Meanwhile, gym trainer Deepak Kumar recounted that the situation escalated into communal tension after some boys misbehaved with the shopkeeper. Questioning the case filed against him, Deepak claimed that the altercation was initiated by the other party. He told a news outlet that he and his friends were celebrating Republic Day when they visited a friend's shop. Some boys approached the shop and began to disrespect the shopkeeper regarding the shop's name. When Deepak asked them to stop, they responded that the term 'Baba' was only used for Siddhbali Baba in their religion, insisting that the shopkeeper must change the name. The shopkeeper's refusal led to the argument escalating into a communal issue.