Letter to DGP seeks to curb violence and steroid abuse in gyms

The letter states that in some fitness centers, gym owners and trainers themselves encourage the use of testosterone-enhancing steroids and other banned substances. | Photo credit: K. MURALI KUMAR

Alarmed by the rising incidents of violence, steroid abuse and other illegal activities in gyms across Karnataka, State Police Complaints Authority Member Mohan Kumar Danappa has written to the Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG&IGP) urging strict action and better monitoring of fitness centers across the state.

In his letter, Mr. Danappa referred to a recent incident reported in Hassan where a youth was said to have fallen into a coma after being brutally assaulted by another gym goer over a trivial issue during training. A case was registered at the Badavan police station and the incident went viral on social media.

Mr. Danappa said that while many young people pursue fitness through healthy lifestyles and natural supplements, some individuals are increasingly resorting to steroids, pre-workout stimulants, narcotics and narcotics to build muscle quickly. He warned that such substance abuse leads to aggressive and inhumane behavior in some gym members.

The letter also expressed concern over incidents of assault, intimidation and alleged harassment of women in gyms. He further claimed that in some fitness centers, gym owners and trainers themselves encourage the use of testosterone-enhancing steroids and other banned substances.

Seeking preventive measures, Mr. Danappa urged the police to order all relevant police stations to conduct special inspections of gymnasiums and ensure mandatory installation of CCTV cameras and strict ban on steroids, narcotics and banned substances among others.

Published – 22 May 2026 19:29 IST