The National Human Rights Commission’s member Priyank Kanoongo disclosed that notices have been sent to state governments, the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs, and sports authorities to provide details on gym and fitness center regulations. Concerns have arisen following complaints of sexual exploitation of women and minor girls by trainers in gyms across the country.
Kanoongo highlighted instances of sexual exploitation, substandard food supplements, and uncontrolled physical activities in gyms and fitness clubs nationwide. He expressed worry over the targeting of Hindu girls by non-Hindu male trainers. The Commission is collecting reports for review and will take necessary actions against the accused individuals in accordance with the law.
In a related incident from July 2025, NHRC member Kanoongo had flagged deficiencies in a police investigation involving an alleged love trap and forced conversion case in Bhopal. The investigation revealed that women students from a private college were reportedly sexually exploited by a group of men. The lapse in addressing the initial complaint of rape by a Muslim man in Indore raised concerns about the seriousness of the police response.
Right-wing organizations, including Bajrang Dal, had subsequently warned gym operators to dismiss Muslim trainers in response to the aforementioned incidents.
