NHRC issues notice over allegations of exploitation, forced religious conversion of women at gyms

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Wednesday (February 4, 2026) issued notice to the Chief Secretaries of all States and Union Territories, the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) over allegations of exploitation and forced religious conversion of women at gyms and fitness centres.

The notice was issued by NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo who said that numerous cases of sexual exploitation of women targeted by trainers in gyms and fitness clubs have come to light from various places across the country.

“Additionally, from a health perspective as well, substandard food supplements and uncontrolled physical activities also pose a threat to human life. Therefore, notices have been issued to all state governments, the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs, and sports authorities, summoning information regarding the rules and guidelines related to the establishment/operation of gyms/fitness centers. So that steps can be taken in the direction of controlling unethical activities in this sector,” he wrote on X.

The notice came on the complaint filed by a Mirzapur (Uttar Pradesh) resident who alleged that an organised racket was being run under the cover of a gym and fitness centre to target young women for exploitation and forced religious conversion. The complainant cited media reports and also alleged that police were hand in gloves in the activities. Terming police’s involvement as “abuse of authority, failure of law enforcement, and violation of human rights, women’s safety, and religious freedom”, the complainant sought the intervention of the Commission.

Taking cognisance of the complaint under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, in the matter, the Bench directed the Chief Secretaries of all States and Union Territories to form guidelines/policy/registration norms and standards for gym establishments/fitness centres etc., in the State.

It also directed the Secretary of MYAS to submit a report regarding any guidelines/policy/registration norms for the gyms/fitness centres etc.

The authorities have been asked to submit a response within two weeks for perusal of the Commission.