Hubballi gyms told to prioritise women’s safety

Hubballi: The Police Commissionerate held a meeting of gym owners in the wake of recent cases of sexual assault at BVB College, Hubballi, on Monday, and directed gyms to obtain licences from the municipal corporation, install CCTV cameras and retain at least six months of video footage.Police commissioner N Shashi Kumar chaired a meeting with gym owners and trainers, stating that meetings were held at every police station to ensure the safety of women. He said several people in the twin cities earn their livelihood by running gyms, and gym owners expressed concern that reputable establishments were being tarnished due to a few isolated incidents in the city. They assured the police that they were willing to comply with all rules laid down by the department.The commissioner said there are about 150 gyms in the district and that while most gym owners and trainers maintain discipline, the actions of a few could negatively impact the entire sector. He cautioned gym owners to be vigilant and said no outsiders should be allowed inside gyms except staff, warning that licences would be cancelled if such violations occurred. He stressed that the safety of female members must be ensured. HDMC commissioner Rudresh Ghali said gyms should be registered and urged owners to strictly adhere to govt norms and take measures to protect women members and staff, warning that licences would be cancelled for non-compliance.DCP Raveesh CR, KMC-RI, RMO Dr Rajashekhar Dyaberi and others were present.Forum demands inquiry into ‘love jihad' caseRanragini, the women's wing of Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, urged the police to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into an alleged ‘love jihad' case and ensure the safety of women at gyms. Speaking to reporters here on Monday, Bhavya Gowda of Ranragini alleged there might be a team operating behind the alleged love jihad incident. She alleged that the police should also arrest the sister of an accused who allegedly introduced the innocent Hindu girl to her brother Sameer Mulla and said there might be a big network behind the incident. She said the police should seize the gym and conduct a thorough investigation.