MIRZAPUR : In Mirzapur gyms have come under police scrutiny after multiple women alleged forced religious conversion, sexual exploitation, and blackmail. The unfolding case has led to the arrest of five accused and the sealing of at least five fitness centres across the district. Authorities say investigations are ongoing and more arrests may follow.
According to police officials, the alleged racket operated under the cover of gym training. Women were reportedly targeted, befriended, and later coerced into religious conversion through intimidation and abuse. The case has triggered strong political reactions and renewed debate over misuse of fitness centres for criminal activities.
The first set of arrests followed complaints by two women who approached Mirzapur police earlier this week. Acting swiftly, officers arrested four accused and produced them before a local court, which sent them to judicial custody.
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Details of Allegations and First Arrests
Police identified the four arrested men as Mohammad Sheikh Ali Alam, Faizal Khan, Zaheer, and Saadab. Investigators said the accused allegedly used gyms as safe spaces to approach women under the pretext of fitness training.
According to the FIR, one complainant said gym trainer Sheikh Ali first befriended her during workouts. Later, he allegedly molested her and secretly recorded objectionable photos and videos. He then used the material to blackmail her and extort money.
The woman further alleged that the accused raised repeated financial demands. He also allegedly took loans in her name under pressure. Moreover, she claimed the harassment escalated into religious coercion.
She told police she was forced to wear a burqa, offer namaz five times daily, and visit a dargah. The accused allegedly compelled her to recite the kalma for conversion. When she resisted, he allegedly threatened to kill her or leak the videos online.
Investigators said the woman claimed the group had similarly targeted other young women. Based on these statements, police sealed five gyms, including KGN Gym and B-Fit Gym, as part of the probe.
Political Reaction and Wider Probe
Reacting to the arrests, Ratnakar Mishra demanded strict punishment. He said gyms should never become tools for what he described as “love jihad.” He added that the government would not tolerate illegal religious conversion.
Mishra also cited the stance of Yogi Adityanath, stressing zero tolerance for forced conversions. Meanwhile, senior police officials said teams are tracing links between different gyms and suspects.
Authorities have expanded the investigation to identify possible networks and financial trails. Police have also appealed to women to come forward if they faced similar harassment.
Second Racket Busted After Police Encounter
In a related but separate operation, Mirzapur police busted another alleged gym-linked conversion and blackmail racket. During this action, police arrested gym owner Farid after an encounter in the Barkachha area.
Officials said Farid also worked as a firearms trainer. He allegedly used his gym as a front to trap young women. When police attempted to arrest him, he reportedly opened fire at the team.
Police responded swiftly and overpowered him without injuries to officers. They then took him into custody. Weapons were reportedly recovered from the spot.
This arrest has further strengthened police claims that some gyms were systematically misused. Investigators are now checking training records, CCTV footage, and financial documents.
Security Measures and Next Steps
Following the incidents, Mirzapur police have increased monitoring of fitness centres. District officials said surprise inspections will continue. Moreover, licences of sealed gyms may face cancellation if violations are confirmed.
Legal experts note that such cases often rely heavily on digital evidence and witness testimony. Therefore, police are focusing on forensic analysis of phones and online communication.
As the investigation widens, authorities stress that genuine gym owners have nothing to fear. However, they warn that any misuse of public spaces for coercion or exploitation will invite strict action.
The Mirzapur gyms forced conversion case has sparked wider concern across Uttar Pradesh. Many residents now demand stronger regulation of private training centres. Meanwhile, police say ensuring women’s safety remains their top priority.