Muslim leaders and Hindu saints in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, have expressed support for the decision by the local administration to mandate police verification and identity cards for gym trainers. They believe this move will help prevent criminal activities and illegal religious conversions. Indian Sufi Foundation President Kashish Warsi emphasized the importance of transparency, stating that concealing one’s identity could pose risks, especially in sensitive roles like gym training. He stressed the significance of verifying identities to ensure safety and security.
Maulana Mufti Mohammad Sajid Qasmi backed the government’s decision, highlighting the necessity of checking qualifications and identities of gym trainers and operators. He compared this requirement to verifying a doctor’s qualifications before allowing them to practice. Qasmi emphasized the need for stringent identity checks to maintain standards and professionalism in the fitness industry. He commended the Uttar Pradesh government for taking this proactive step.
All India Muslim Jamaat President Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi supported the police verification of gym trainers and proposed the segregation of gyms based on gender to prevent any potential issues. He suggested that separate facilities for men and women would enhance safety and adherence to religious norms. Similarly, Mahant Sitaram Das of Ayodhya’s Saket Bhavan temple advocated for thorough inspections of gyms and verification of trainers to ensure transparency. He lauded the government’s efforts to combat activities that could lead to religious conversions.
Sant Varun Dasji Maharaj raised concerns about the misuse of gyms for alleged “love jihad” and called for strict enforcement of the verification mandate. He emphasized the need to safeguard traditional values and prevent any unlawful activities that could jeopardize societal harmony. The collective support from religious leaders and community representatives underscores the importance of maintaining security measures and upholding ethical practices in various establishments.
