New Delhi, Feb 4: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories, the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and the Sports Authority of India following allegations that gyms and fitness centres are being misused to exploit young women, including for forced religious conversion.
The action was taken by a Bench headed by NHRC Member Priyank Kanoongo, which took cognisance of a complaint claiming that an organised racket was operating under the cover of a gym in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, targeting women for exploitation and conversion.
According to the complaint, media reports suggested that more than 50 women were allegedly targeted, and that a police personnel was directly involved in the racket. The alleged involvement of a police official raises serious concerns about abuse of authority, failure of law enforcement, erosion of public trust, and potential human rights violations, the Commission observed.
Reports Sought From Governments
The NHRC has directed all Chief Secretaries to submit detailed reports outlining existing policies, registration norms, guidelines, and standards governing the establishment and functioning of gyms in their jurisdictions.
Notices were also sent to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to clarify whether any national regulatory framework exists for gyms and fitness centres, while the Sports Authority of India has been asked to provide information on licensing requirements and operational guidelines.
Probe Ordered in Mirzapur Case
Separately, the Commission instructed the Mirzapur District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police to investigate the allegations. All concerned authorities have been asked to respond within two weeks.
The complainant has sought an independent investigation, protection and rehabilitation for victims, strict action against any police personnel involved, and nationwide regulatory guidelines to prevent such incidents.
Background
Earlier, Uttar Pradesh police busted an alleged religious conversion and extortion racket operating through a network of gyms after a woman filed a complaint, with investigators recovering digital material linked to more than 50 women.
