Police in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, have invoked the Gangster Act against 10 accused in the controversial alleged “Gym Jihad” case, intensifying legal action in a matter involving accusations of religious conversion, blackmail and exploitation of young women.
The accused were earlier arrested in cases linked to alleged forced religious conversion and extortion. Authorities claim the network operated through gyms and social media platforms to target women, while the accused side has questioned the repeated addition of strict legal provisions before any conviction by a court.
According to police, the action was taken under the Uttar Pradesh Gangsters and Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act based on two cases registered at Kotwali Dehat police station in January 2026. Officials said investigations in both cases led to the addition of serious charges, and charge sheets have already been filed before the court. The matter is currently under trial.
Police Allege Organised Network Targeted Women
Police allege that the group, led by Imran Khan, used gyms as spaces to approach young women, particularly Hindu girls, and later manipulated or pressured them into relationships and religious conversion.
Investigators claim the accused allegedly befriended women through Instagram and other social media platforms before gradually gaining their trust. Police also allege that objectionable photos and videos of women were recorded and later used for blackmail and extortion.
According to investigators, a woman identified as Sanno played an important role in the alleged network by befriending women and introducing them to men linked to the accused group.
A senior police official claimed, “The accused worked in an organised manner. If a woman could not be influenced at one gym, she was allegedly shifted to another gym connected to the network.”
Police further claimed that digital evidence recovered during the probe includes photographs, videos and chats that are being examined as part of the investigation.
CM Yogi’s Directions and Property Investigation
Police said the latest action was taken following instructions from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to crack down on organised crime, alleged unlawful religious conversion and crimes against women.
Among those booked under the Gangster Act are Maulvi Khalilu Rahman and gym trainer Imran Khan, who are already lodged in Mirzapur district jail.
Officials said they are now identifying properties allegedly acquired through criminal activities and may initiate seizure proceedings if evidence supports such claims.
Mirzapur Superintendent of Police Aparna Rajat Kaushik said the district administration has been conducting continuous action against organised criminal networks.
Accused Side Raises Concerns
People linked to the accused have raised concerns over the use of stringent laws before guilt is established in court. They argue that repeated additions of severe charges have created fear and anxiety among families of the accused.
Police, however, maintain that the investigation points to an organised operation involving coercion, blackmail and alleged forced conversion, adding that further legal action will depend on evidence collected during the probe.
