'Mohammad' Deepak row: 15 SC advocates step in as gym memberships fall from 150 to just 15

• Senior lawyers buy gym memberships to support Deepak's business
• Advocates offer free legal aid after viral video controversy
• Police boost security in Kotdwar amid fresh threats to Deepak

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The legal fraternity has stepped forward to support Deepak Kumar, a gym owner in Kotdwar, Uttarakhand, after his business suffered a sharp decline following a viral video linked to a communal confrontation. Membership at Hulk Gym, owned by Deepak, also known as “Mohammad Deepak”, dropped from 150 to just about 15, threatening his livelihood.

Now, a group of senior lawyers decided to intervene. Around 15 senior advocates of the Supreme Court, have collectively taken up annual gym memberships to help the business survive, The Indian Express reported.

Incident that sparked backlash

The controversy began on January 26, when Deepak, 38, confronted a group of men who were allegedly harassing a 70-year-old Muslim shopkeeper suffering from Parkinson’s disease. The men were pressuring the elderly man to remove the word “Baba” from his shop’s name.

During the argument, Deepak was asked his name, to which he replied, “Mohammad Deepak.” A video of the exchange soon went viral on social media. While many praised his stand against harassment and communal pressure, others reacted angrily.

On January 31, several members of the Bajrang Dal gathered outside Deepak’s gym to confront him. Police intervened and prevented the situation from escalating.

Business hit as town stands divided

In the days that followed, Deepak’s gym witnessed a steep fall in footfall. Many regular members stopped coming, leaving the gym nearly empty. With rent of Rs 40,000 a month and home loan repayments to manage, the sudden loss of income pushed him into financial stress.

Speaking earlier, Deepak said the town appeared split over his actions. “Half the town supports me, but people don’t clap when you do the right thing. Honesty sometimes comes at a cost,” he said.

Senior advocates fund gym memberships

A group of senior advocates decided to step in. Each contributed Rs 10,000 as a one-year gym membership fee. The idea was inspired by CPI(M) MP John Brittas, who had earlier visited the gym and purchased a membership to show solidarity.

One of the lawyers who coordinated the effort said Deepak initially refused to accept money. To respect his wishes, the advocates came up with an alternative plan. Instead of donating cash directly, they decided to sponsor gym memberships for young people in Kotdwar who cannot afford the fees.

Under this arrangement, membership cards will mention the name of the contributor who paid for them. Deepak has agreed to this and has started issuing receipts accordingly.

Free legal aid also offered

Beyond financial help, the lawyers have also offered free legal support. More than 20 advocates have now joined the initiative, pledging pro bono legal assistance to help Deepak deal with any legal challenges arising from the January 26 incident.

An advocate involved in the effort said that the initiative is aimed at extending solidarity to Kumar’s act and sending a message to prove that “while standing up for what is right may carry a heavy price, the community will ensure it does not lead to ruin”.

Several public figures and social media users have also expressed support. Actor Swara Bhaskar and social activist-author Harsh Mander were among those who encouraged people to buy gym memberships as a way of backing Deepak.

Deepak said he remains firm on not accepting cash donations. “I’ve told everyone clearly that I won’t take money. If people want to help, they can take memberships,” he said.

Fresh threats raise security concerns

Even as support poured in, tensions resurfaced after Hindu Raksha Dal leader Pinky Chaudhary posted multiple videos online, issuing threats against Deepak. In one video, he called on supporters to gather outside the gym. Another showed him standing near police personnel while threatening to “silence” Deepak.

In response, Pauri Garhwal police said security in Kotdwar has been tightened. Vehicle checks have been intensified at district entry points, and additional police forces have been deployed at sensitive locations, markets, and crowded areas.

Police said foot patrols and mobile patrols are being conducted continuously. “Strict action will be taken against anyone trying to disturb peace or vitiate the atmosphere in Kotdwar,” the district police said in a statement.