Hindu Utsav Samiti chief urges women to avoid gyms:Remarks come after Muslim instructor was caught with Hindu woman in hotel; directs gyms not to hire Muslim trainers

A major controversy erupted in Bhopal’s Habibganj area after a gym trainer, identified as Mazhar Khan, was caught with a young woman at a hotel on Thursday. As per police, Khan, who works at Vishal Fitness Centre, had introduced himself to the woman under the false name Bunty. The two met at the gym before going to the hotel, where they allegedly registered under a changed name. Information about the incident reached the members of Hindu outfits, who stormed the hotel, caught the trainer, and assaulted him before handing him over to the police. Hindu Utsav Samiti chief issues statement Following the incident, the Hindu Utsav Samiti and Sanskriti Bachao Manch issued a strong statement on Friday. Committee president Chandrashekhar Tiwari warned that if any Muslim trainer is employed at a gym and an untoward situation arises, both the gym owners and the administration will be held responsible. He further demanded that gym owners be directed not to appoint Muslim trainers, similar to the way authorities have mandated ID checks at Garba events. Tiwari alleged that Hindu women are being trapped through “gym jihad” and pushed into immoral activities. He appealed to Hindu women to avoid gyms and instead practise traditional exercises at home, urging families to ensure their daughters do the same. Sports Minister reacts too Sports and Youth Welfare Minister of the state, Vishvas Kailash Sarang also commented on the issue, saying that cases of “Love Jihad” will not be tolerated. He referred to the state’s existing Freedom of Religion Act, under which action will be taken if any woman is lured or coerced into conversion through relationships. Meanwhile, Habibganj police told Bhaskar English that Mazhar Khan has been sent to jail. Station House Officer (SHO) Sanjeev Chouksey said the woman is undergoing counselling, and further legal action will depend on her statement.