Recently, the Allahabad High Court directed the Investigating Officer to file a detailed affidavit regarding the registration status of a Meerut-based gym and the arrest of its trainer, accused under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. The Court also expressed concern over the lack of safeguards for women being trained by male instructors in gyms.
The case arose from allegations against Nitin Saini, a gym trainer running “Fit & Lift” gym in Meerut. The complainant, Anita, alleged that while she was working out, the trainer hurled caste-based abuses at her, pushed her on the chest, used offensive language, and forced her out of the premises.
In her statement before the Magistrate, Anita further alleged that the trainer had made obscene videos of her friend and had been circulating them for months. These claims, if proven, would attract provisions under the SC/ST Act as well as sections of the Indian Penal Code.
The prosecution emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, arguing that the conduct of the accused not only involved caste-based atrocities but also acts that endangered the dignity and safety of women. The matter, according to them, reflected a larger issue of female clients being trained by male instructors without adequate safeguards.
Taking note of the allegations, the Court observed, “It is a matter of serious concern that presently male gym trainers are imparting training to female clients without adequate safeguards to ensure their safety and dignity".
The Court underscored the need for greater accountability and protective measures within such fitness institutions, especially when women are being trained in environments lacking proper oversight.
In light of the circumstances, the Court directed the Investigating Officer of Police Station Brahmpuri, Meerut, to file a personal affidavit clarifying whether the gym is duly registered under law, whether the accused has been arrested in connection with the present case, and whether female trainers are employed at the gym. The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 8, 2025.
Case Title: Nitin Saini Vs. State of U.P. and Another
Case No.: Criminal Appeal No. - 10866 of 2024
Coram: Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav
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