The High Court of Judicature at Allahabad has raised serious concerns regarding the safety and dignity of female clients in fitness centers trained by male instructors. While hearing a criminal appeal, the court directed the investigating officer to submit a detailed affidavit regarding a gym in Meerut where a trainer is accused of hurling caste-based slurs and harassing a woman.
The order was passed by Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav in the case of Nitin Saini v. State of U.P. and Another (CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 10866 of 2024).
Background of the Case
The case originates from a First Information Report (FIR) filed against Nitin Saini, a gym trainer operating a facility named “Fit & Lift” in Madhavpuram, Prem Vihar, Meerut. According to the allegations detailed in the FIR, on April 29, 2024, at approximately 7:57 PM, the appellant, Mr. Saini, allegedly abused the victim, Anita, while she was working out.
The judgment notes that the appellant is accused of using a caste-based slur, “Chamari Chamatti,” pushing the victim on her chest with force, hurling filthy abuses, and then expelling her from the gym premises. These alleged acts attract provisions under Section 3(2)5 of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, along with relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Further allegations emerged from the victim’s statement recorded under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (Cr.P.C.). In her statement, she claimed that the appellant had also prepared obscene videos of her friend, Aarti, and had been sending this material to Aarti over the preceding six to seven months. The court noted that these additional allegations could potentially constitute offences under Sections 354 and 504 of the IPC.
Court’s Observations and Analysis
During the proceedings, the court expressed significant concern over the environment in fitness centers. Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav 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’s analysis focused on the potential vulnerability of women in such settings and the need for proper oversight and safety measures in establishments like gyms.
Decision and Directions
In light of the circumstances, the High Court issued specific directions to the Investigating Officer of Police Station Brahmpuri, Meerut. The officer has been ordered to file a personal affidavit addressing the following key points:
(i) Whether the gym operated by the appellant is duly registered under the law. (ii) Whether the appellant has been arrested in connection with the present case. (iii) Whether the gym employs female trainers.
The court has scheduled the matter to be listed as “fresh” on September 8, 2025, for further hearing pending the submission of the affidavit.
