The legal community is intervening to support ‘Mohammad’ Deepak’s gym in Kotdwar, Uttarakhand, after a significant decline in membership, and revenue.
Following a report detailing the drop in Hulk Gym’s membership from 150 to just 15, 15 Senior Advocates of the Supreme Court have stepped forward to help sustain Deepak Kumar’s livelihood.
The situation began on January 26, when Deepak stood up to a group of men harassing a shopkeeper who suffers from Parkinson’s disease, pressuring him to remove the word “Baba” from his shop’s name. A video of the incident went viral. On January 31, members of the Bajrang Dal gathered to confront Deepak, but were held back by police.
The town is now divided, with some expressing solidarity and others feeling antagonized by Deepak’s actions. Deepak himself stated, “Half of the town supports me, but people do not applaud when you do good deeds. Honesty might reach at a price.”
The decline in gym membership left Kumar struggling to pay the Rs 40,000 monthly rent and a loan for a house. In response, the Senior Advocates have each contributed Rs 10,000 towards a one-year membership fee. This action was inspired by CPI(M) MP John Brittas, who had previously purchased a membership.
The lead advocate explained that Deepak initially declined direct financial assistance. The group then proposed funding memberships for local gym-goers who cannot afford them, with membership cards displaying the name of the contributing advocate. Deepak has agreed to this arrangement and is issuing receipts.
More than 20 lawyers have joined the initiative, offering Deepak free legal aid to address any legal repercussions stemming from his January 26 actions. The advocates aim to send a message that “while standing up for what is right may carry a heavy price, the community will ensure it does not lead to ruin.”
Support has also come from social media, with actor Swara Bhaskar and author Harsh Mander suggesting membership purchases to help sustain the gym. Deepak has reiterated his preference for memberships over direct financial contributions, stating, “I have told everyone who reached out that I am not accepting cash. Many people have called for membership.”
Fresh threat
Hindu Raksha Dal leader Pinky Chaudhary has posted videos containing threats against Deepak, calling on followers to gather at the gym on Thursday and threatening to “silence” Kumar.
The Uttarakhand government intervened to prevent Chaudhary’s followers from assembling, but he stated they were still en route. Chaudhary said, “We will set him straight. If someone hurts the Sanatan sentiments and if some Hindu has hurt the religion, we will correct him.”
Pauri Garhwal police have increased security measures, including vehicle checks and increased patrols in sensitive areas. They stated that strict legal action will be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt peace in Kotdwar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the decline in gym membership?
The gym’s membership plummeted after Deepak Kumar publicly defended a Muslim shopkeeper and identified himself as “Mohammad Deepak,” leading to backlash from some community members.
How are the Senior Advocates supporting Deepak Kumar?
Fifteen Senior Advocates of the Supreme Court are each contributing Rs 10,000 towards one-year gym memberships, and are providing free legal aid.
What threats has Deepak Kumar received?
Hindu Raksha Dal leader Pinky Chaudhary posted videos threatening Deepak Kumar and calling on his followers to confront him.
What role does community support play in this situation, and how might it evolve moving forward?
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