On February 4, 2026, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) sent notices to Chief Secretaries of all States and Union Territories, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), and the Sports Authority of India (SAI). This action follows complaints about sexual exploitation and forced religious conversion of women at gyms and fitness centres nationwide. NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo said, "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." He also raised health concerns, noting that "substandard food supplements and uncontrolled physical activities also pose a threat to human life." The notice demands information on rules and guidelines concerning gym operations to curb unethical activities. The complaint originated from a Mirzapur resident who alleged an organised racket operating under the guise of fitness centres to exploit young women and force religious conversion. The complainant accused police of complicity, calling it an "abuse of authority, failure of law enforcement, and violation of human rights, women's safety, and religious freedom." The NHRC took cognisance under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, and directed Chief Secretaries to create guidelines or registration norms for gyms in their states. The MYAS Secretary must also report existing policies on fitness centres. Authorities have been asked to respond within two weeks for the commission’s review.