Uttarakhand HC Cracks Down on Gym Owner, Refuses to Quash FIR; Imposes Social Media Gag Order

Dehradun: In a significant development, the Uttarakhand High Court has refused to quash an FIR filed against gym owner Mohammad Deepak, while simultaneously issuing a strict directive restraining him from making any comments on social media regarding the ongoing case.

The order was passed by Justice Rakesh Thapliyal, who observed that public commentary by the accused could interfere with the ongoing police investigation. The court emphasized that individuals under investigation must refrain from influencing proceedings through social media platforms.

The case stems from a January incident in which Deepak Kumar allegedly confronted a group of right-wing activists accused of harassing a Muslim shopkeeper over the name of his establishment. Following the incident, multiple FIRs were registered, and the matter is currently under investigation.

During the hearing, the State informed the court that the accused had not been cooperating adequately with investigators and was instead actively engaging on social media. Taking note of this, the court directed him to fully cooperate with authorities and avoid any actions that could disrupt the probe.

“The petitioner must trust the investigative process and refrain from unnecessary public statements,” the court remarked, adding that the police are duty-bound to ensure a fair and transparent investigation.

The court also rejected Deepak’s plea seeking police protection and a departmental inquiry against certain officers, stating that such demands were premature and could undermine the morale of the investigating agency.

While the petitioner’s counsel argued that his client was attempting to de-escalate tensions during the incident and had been receiving threats, the court maintained that law enforcement agencies are responsible for ensuring safety and maintaining order.

Importantly, the court noted that cross-FIRs have already been registered in the matter, making further demands for additional FIRs unnecessary at this stage.

The High Court concluded by expressing confidence in the police to conduct a fair probe, while reiterating that maintaining law and order remains paramount. The ruling sends a clear message against the misuse of social media during sensitive legal proceedings and underscores the importance of respecting due process.