Hubballi-Dharwad Gym Row: Police Step In Amid ‘Love Jihad’ Protests, Arrests, and Political War of Words.

B Upendran | HENB | Hubballi-Dharwad, Karnataka | April 7, 2026:: Tensions escalated in the twin cities of Hubballi-Dharwad after protests by Hindutva groups alleging that several local gyms had become centres of so-called “Love Jihad.” The controversy follows two recent cases involving alleged harassment and sexual exploitation of young women, prompting police intervention, arrests, and a widening political confrontation.

Police Convene Emergency Meeting with Gym Owners

Responding to the unrest, Police Commissioner N. Shashikumar chaired a high-level meeting with gym owners and trainers on Monday. The move came after protests accused certain gym trainers—particularly from the Muslim community—of targeting women under the pretext of relationships.

During the meeting, the Commissioner issued strict directives aimed at tightening oversight in gymnasiums. These included:

• Mandatory installation of CCTV cameras with audio recording
• Verification of employee backgrounds before hiring
• Avoiding employment of individuals with criminal records

Officials emphasized that gyms must adhere to safety norms and ensure a secure environment for women members. The Commissioner also heard grievances from gym owners and assured them that their concerns would be addressed.

Senior officials, including Deputy Commissioners of Police Raveesh C. R. and Shruthi N. S., and Municipal Commissioner Rudresh Ghali were present at the meeting.

Arrests and Multiple Cases Registered

Police have registered four cases linked to the two incidents under investigation. Two accused—Sameer Mulla, a gym trainer, and Mufiz Miyanavar—have been arrested.

• In Sameer Mulla’s case, two separate complaints were filed: one by the alleged victim and another by her mother.
• A third case relates to an alleged assault on Mulla by activists during protests.

As many as 65 unidentified individuals have been named in connection with the assault case. Mulla, however, has claimed that the complaint against him was filed under pressure and that his girlfriend was coerced into making allegations.

Gym Bodybuilders’ Association Responds

Amid growing tensions, the Dharwad District Body Builders Association held a press conference condemning the incidents and demanding strict action against those found guilty. At the same time, the association appealed to the public not to generalize or stigmatize all gyms based on isolated incidents.

Protests and Threats of Bandh

Hindutva organizations intensified protests, raising concerns over alleged targeting of Hindu women. Pramod Muthalik, leader of the Sri Rama Sene, criticized police action against activists and demanded withdrawal of cases filed against them. He warned of a city-wide bandh if the demands are not met.

Political Leaders Enter the Fray

The controversy has taken a political turn with leaders across parties weighing in.

Expelled BJP leader Basanagouda Patil Yatnal visited one of the victims’ families and called for a thorough investigation, alleging possible links to extremist networks.

Members of the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, including its women’s wing “Ranaragini,” also met the victim’s family and submitted a memorandum demanding that the probe be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

Victim’s Statement Adds Complexity

In the second case involving Mufiz Miyanavar, the alleged victim publicly clarified that a viral video showing her intent to marry the accused was made under duress. She alleged that she had been threatened and claimed that a local Congress leader was responsible for leaking the video.

Congress vs BJP: Allegations of Political Motive

The issue has sparked a sharp political exchange. Leaders from the Indian National Congress accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of amplifying the controversy for electoral gains ahead of Assembly bypolls.

KPCC general secretary Rajat Ullagaddimath described the developments as part of a “BJP toolkit,” alleging that personal relationships were being misrepresented to create communal tensions.

Congress leaders also claimed that in one of the cases, the relationship was consensual and that the situation was being distorted for political purposes.

Law and Order Focus Amid Rising Tensions

With protests, counter-allegations, and political narratives intensifying, authorities are focusing on maintaining law and order while ensuring that investigations proceed based on evidence.

Police have reiterated that all cases will be handled impartially and warned against vigilantism or attempts to communalize the incidents. The situation in Hubballi-Dharwad remains sensitive, with further developments likely as investigations continue.