Surat: Following complaints of gym trainers allegedly harassing women clients through unsolicited and sometimes obscene messages, the city police on Monday summoned around 100 gym owners and instructors and warned them of strict action if such behaviour continued.The meeting was convened following verbal complaints made to the police commissioner and other senior officials about trainers allegedly sending inappropriate messages to women who visited gyms.During the interaction held at Umra Hall, police cautioned gym operators against any personal involvement with clients and advised them to ensure proper background verification of trainers before hiring them. Deputy commissioner of police (DCP) Rajdeep Nakum said that owners and representatives from gyms in Vesu, Althan, Piplod, Adajan, Pal, Rander, Athwalines and other areas were called for the meeting. “Therer have been instances where such conduct has resulted in serious family disputes and breakdown,” he said.“We received complaints that some trainers were sending inappropriate messages to women members and trying to develop personal relationships through gyms. We made it clear that such behaviour will not be tolerated and strict action will be taken if complaints are received,” Nakum said.Police also asked gym owners to install high-quality CCTV cameras covering all areas of their facilities. In the coming days, the Special Operations Group (SOG) teams will visit gyms across the city and interact with members to gather feedback.“Our teams will conduct visits and take reviews from gym members. Owners have been instructed to ensure proper surveillance and maintain discipline within their premises,” the officer added.
