After multiple cases of alleged love jihad, targeted Islamic conversions across Karnataka, a fresh controversy has emerged with Hindu organizations alleging and exposing the existence of a gym jihad network. The allegations center around an Islamist gym trainer identified as Ismail, who is accused of targeting Hindu women visiting gyms under the guise of fitness training.
As per the News 18 Kannada reports, according to members of Hindu organizations, Ismail allegedly befriended Hindu women who regularly visited the gym and gradually established close relationships with them. They claim that CCTV footage from the gym shows the trainer Ismail engaging in conversations and spending extended periods with several women. The incident is reported to have taken place within the jurisdiction of the KTJ Nagar Police Station in Davangere.
Hindu organization leaders have alleged that Hindu women visiting the gym were deliberately singled out and subjected to psychological manipulation under the pretext of personal training. S.T. Veeresh, a leader associated with a Hindu organization, claimed that young women were allegedly brainwashed after gaining their trust through repeated interactions during workout sessions.
The Hindu organization has further alleged that some women were later subjected to sexual exploitation and harassment by the trainer Ismail. According to the allegations, private photographs and videos were allegedly recorded and subsequently used for blackmail. These claims have sparked widespread concern among local residents and Hindu organizations, who have demanded a thorough investigation into the matter.
The allegations have generated significant public attention in Davangere, with several Hindu groups calling for strict legal action against the accused Islamist Ismail and urging authorities to investigate whether similar incidents have occurred in other gyms across Karnataka. They have also appealed to young women and their families to remain vigilant and exercise caution while attending fitness centres.
According to Hindu organizations’ leaders, a woman from a reputed family allegedly attempted to take her own life after being subjected to blackmail. They have demanded that gym trainer Ismail be expelled from the district and that stringent legal action be taken against him. The issue has further escalated after Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge reportedly warned Hindu leaders that action would be taken against them if they engaged in moral policing. The minister’s remarks have drawn criticism from the protesting groups, who argue that the focus should remain on ensuring a thorough investigation into the allegations and bringing those responsible to justice.
Such incidents are a matter of shame for Karnataka. The Congress government in the state is failing to ensure strict police action against such criminals. The politics of appeasement should never come at the cost of justice. Hindus in Karnataka should understand how they are being targeted and why many believe justice is being delayed or denied in such cases.
