On Feb. 25, 2026, Rahul Gandhi praised gym trainer Deepak Kumar for protecting a Muslim shopkeeper from Hindu nationalist activists demanding name changes, calling it brave defense of India’s secular values.

On February 25, 2026, Rahul Gandhi praised Deepak Kumar, a Kotdwar gym trainer who intervened to protect a Muslim shopkeeper during a dispute over the shop’s name, Ahmed's Baba School Dress & Matching Centre. The incident, which began on January 26, involved Bajrang Dal activists demanding the name be changed, claiming "Baba" was religiously exclusive. Kumar, identifying as Mohammed Deepak, stepped in after alleged harassment, sparking protests and police action. Three FIRs were filed on both sides, with authorities taking suo motu action against outsiders blocking roads. Gandhi hailed Kumar’s actions as courageous patriotism, emphasizing defense of constitutional values and communal harmony.