In Kotdwar, Uttarakhand, Mohammad Deepak, a gym owner, has attracted public attention after a video of him regarding a dispute went viral. The video showed an elderly Muslim shopkeeper being pressured to change the sign on his shop, which led to a public outcry. In support of Deepak, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited him, emphasizing the values of unity and courage among the youth of India. Gandhi's engagement with Deepak signifies an attempt to address communal tensions and promote a message of equality and inclusiveness.

During their meeting, Rahul Gandhi expressed his pleasure at connecting with Deepak, noting the importance of fostering unity and courage among Indian youth. This meeting comes in the backdrop of a social media controversy that highlighted issues of communal harmony in the region. Deepak, after meeting with Gandhi, stated that the support he received not only enhanced his courage but also reassured him that his voice for justice had been acknowledged.

The controversy initially erupted following a verbal clash in a market on January 26, where the Muslim shopkeeper faced pressure to alter his shop's name. The viral nature of the video intensified reactions from various community groups, drawing politicians into the fray and highlighting sensitive communal dynamics in India. Deepak's case represents broader social issues surrounding religious identity, communal relationships, and civic activism in contemporary Indian society.