Why NHRC Is Cracking Down on India’s Unregulated Gyms

With fitness culture booming across India, gyms and training centres have become part of everyday life. However, mounting complaints of abuse and unsafe practices have now prompted intervention from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

The Commission has issued notices to all state governments and central authorities, seeking details on how gyms are regulated and monitored.

Trigger for Action: Alarming Complaints

The NHRC’s move follows multiple complaints from different parts of the country alleging sexual exploitation and misconduct by trainers in gyms and fitness clubs.

NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo said that several cases involving women, adolescent girls, and minors have surfaced, exposing serious gaps in supervision and accountability.

According to the Commission, vulnerable individuals are often targeted in poorly regulated fitness spaces, where oversight remains weak.

Safety at Risk: Women and Minors in Focus

The Commission has highlighted that young women and teenage girls are particularly at risk in unregulated environments.

Lack of background checks, absence of grievance mechanisms, and inadequate supervision have made many gyms unsafe, especially for first-time users and young trainees.

The NHRC has stressed the need for stricter safeguards to prevent exploitation and harassment.

Health Hazards: Unchecked Supplements and Training Practices

Beyond safety concerns, the NHRC has also flagged serious health risks linked to fitness centres.

Unverified food supplements, unsafe steroids, and excessive training routines have emerged as major threats. Combined with unqualified trainers, these practices can lead to long-term health damage and even life-threatening complications.

The Commission has warned that uncontrolled physical activity without medical supervision puts users at grave risk.

Regulatory Gaps Under Scrutiny

To address these issues, the NHRC has sought detailed information from:

• All state governments

• Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs

• Concerned sports authorities

Authorities have been asked to submit existing rules, licensing systems, and monitoring mechanisms governing gyms and fitness clubs.

The aim is to assess whether current regulations are adequate or require urgent reform.

Push for Ethical Standards in the Fitness Industry

The Commission has made it clear that its objective is to curb unethical practices and bring transparency to the rapidly growing fitness sector.

Based on responses received, the NHRC may recommend stricter licensing norms, mandatory certification of trainers, regular inspections, and grievance redressal systems.

These steps are expected to improve accountability and protect users’ rights.

Context: Recent Administrative Developments

The move comes shortly after the appointment of senior IPS officers Anand Swaroop and Anupama Nilekar Chandra to key positions in the Ministry of Home Affairs and NHRC.

These appointments, approved by the Cabinet, signal the government’s focus on strengthening institutional oversight.

What Lies Ahead

The NHRC’s intervention could mark a turning point for India’s fitness industry.

If followed by strong regulatory reforms, it may lead to safer training environments, better professional standards, and stronger protection for gym users nationwide.

(With inputs from ANI)