Uttarakhand Shop Name Row: How ‘Mohammad Deepak’ Moment Sparked Communal Debate in Kotdwar

A local dispute over the name of a clothing shop in Uttarakhand’s Kotdwar recently escalated into a wider law-and-order issue, drawing national attention after a viral video introduced the phrase “Mohammad Deepak” into the public conversation. Authorities have since stated that the situation is under control following mediation efforts, police deployment and legal action against multiple individuals involved in the protests.

The controversy began around two and a half months ago when members of a local organisation objected to the name “Baba” used by a shop owned by Mohammad Shoaib on Patel Marg. Protesters argued that the word carried religious significance due to its association with a prominent temple in the area. According to local accounts, Shoaib initially indicated he would consider renaming the shop after relocating to a new premises, which temporarily eased tensions.

However, when the shop was shifted a short distance in mid-January and continued operating under the same name, objections resurfaced. Demonstrations intensified, and disagreements moved from verbal protests to physical confrontations. A major clash occurred on January 28 when a group gathered outside the shop, leading to heated exchanges between protesters and those present at the location.

During the confrontation, a local gym owner named Deepak Kumar intervened and was seen in a video identifying himself as “Mohammad Deepak.” The clip quickly spread across social media platforms, turning him into a central figure in the debate. In later interactions, he said his statement was intended to emphasise unity and highlight the importance of national identity above religious divisions. The video sparked polarised reactions online, with some viewing it as a call for harmony while others criticised it as provocative.

As the issue gained traction online, tensions in Kotdwar increased. On January 31, larger groups reportedly gathered near the shop, raising slogans and demanding action against those involved in earlier clashes. Police rushed to the scene and senior administrative officials initiated talks between community representatives to prevent further escalation. Authorities also strengthened security through flag marches, additional personnel deployment and vehicle checks at entry points into the town.

Law enforcement agencies registered multiple FIRs linked to the controversy. Cases were filed against unidentified protesters for disturbing public peace and creating communal tension, while separate complaints addressed allegations of abusive language and threats during the confrontations. Officials emphasised that maintaining communal harmony remained the top priority as the situation unfolded.

Following sustained mediation, the administration announced that the shop would continue operating under its existing name and warned all parties against further attempts to inflame tensions. Police officials confirmed that normalcy has largely returned to Kotdwar, although they continue monitoring the area to prevent any resurgence of unrest.

The episode highlights how local disputes can quickly escalate in the age of social media, where viral videos and online narratives amplify on-ground tensions. Community leaders and authorities have urged residents to avoid spreading unverified information and to prioritise dialogue over confrontation. As the town gradually moves toward stability, the incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required to maintain peace in diverse communities navigating sensitive cultural issues.