MP John Brittas Visits Deepak Kumar, Applauds His Courage in Defending Muslim Shopkeeper from Communal Attack in Kotdwar

Dr. John Brittas, Member of Parliament, recently visited Deepak Kumar, a young man who became a beacon of hope in the fight against communalism by saving a Muslim shopkeeper from an attack by the Sangh Parivar. MP Brittas expressed his solidarity with Deepak and his family, praising his courage and selflessness.

Deepak Kumar gained recognition for his bravery when he intervened during a communal attack on an elderly Muslim man, Mohammed, in Kotdwar, a town located in the foothills of the Himalayas. The attack took place on Republic Day, when Bajrang Dal activists attacked the elderly man demanding the removal of "Baba" from his shop's name claiming that the name is exclusive to Hindus. Despite facing a mob, Deepak stood his ground, defending the helpless Mohammed.

In a heartfelt visit, John Brittas MP described Deepak Kumar as a "ray of hope in the fight against Hindutva communalism," which he referred to as a "cancer" eating away at the fabric of India. He commended Deepak for protecting the elderly Muslim man, highlighting that Deepak’s actions were a testament to the values of coexistence and compassion, transcending religious boundaries.

"Deepak Kumar’s courage in standing up for a vulnerable person, despite his own Hindu identity, shows that humanity and brotherhood still have a place in our society," Dr. Brittas said. He added that Deepak's bravery was a reminder of the values Kerala holds dear — religious harmony and mutual respect.

During his visit to Kotdwar, Dr. Brittas met Deepak and his family, extending his best wishes to them. He also visited the shop of the elderly Muslim man who was targeted. Hes strongly criticized the case registered against Deepak at the Kotdwar police station, calling it an unjust and troubling turn of events.