The Keralam government on Monday announced a major drive to shut down illegally functioning spas across the state. Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala stated that police operations would be stepped up following widespread complaints of financial fraud and the exploitation of women at such establishments. The announcement follows a state-wide police inspection drive named 'Operation Spa', with the minister warning that non-compliant centres will be closed down.

Rising crimes and lack of legal clarity

Public concern over unregulated spas has heightened following two recent criminal cases. In Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, police arrested several individuals after a minor was sexually assaulted at a local spa. In another incident in Kochi, a woman was allegedly gang-raped after being promised job opportunities at a spa.

Addressing reporters on Monday, Chennithala pointed out that many spas currently operate under the Shops and Establishments Act without meeting basic legal requirements. "Spas are being opened across Keralam under the Shops and Establishments Act without proper adherence to legal requirements. There is little clarity about who is starting these establishments or what activities are taking place there. The government is seriously considering legislation to regulate this sector," he said.

Targeting illegal operators and fraud

The Minister highlighted that women are being brought into Keralam from both inside and outside the state to work in these centres, where many face exploitation. "Women are being brought from within and outside Keralam, employed at these establishments and exploited. Numerous complaints are coming to light. Sexual exploitation has emerged as a major concern in this sector," he said.

Police investigations revealed that several spas operate without licences or responsibility, while some fraudulently collect money from customers. Chennithala issued a firm warning against illegal operators. "Such spas must be shut down immediately. There is no question of allowing them to operate in Keralam. Those running these establishments must stop such activities or face strict legal action," he said. Although he acknowledged that some spas function properly, he stressed that stricter laws are required to stop cheating and exploitation.

Over five hundred spas inspected during police drive

Police statistics released on Sunday outline the massive scale of 'Operation Spa', conducted under the directions of ADGP (Law and Order) P Vijayan. Out of 821 spas across Keralam, police teams inspected 586 establishments on Saturday and registered 14 cases for alleged legal violations. Overall, over 500 spas were raided and five people were arrested. Furthermore, official notices were served to 44 spas failing to follow regulations.

The heaviest police action occurred in Kozhikode city, where officers raided 70 out of 87 spas, filed four cases, and arrested four individuals. Raids were also conducted across multiple other districts:

  • Malappuram: 71 out of 78 spas inspected.
  • Thrissur District and Thrissur City: 56 out of 58 spas inspected in each jurisdiction.
  • Palakkad: 55 out of 71 spas inspected.
  • Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha: 3 cases registered in each district.
  • Ernakulam Rural: 2 cases registered.
  • Kottayam and Idukki: 1 case registered in each district.

The ADGP for Law and Order warned that strict legal steps will follow for any establishment breaking the law.

Expanding anti-narcotics drive and road safety

Alongside spa inspections, police are expanding 'Operation Toofan', a state-wide campaign against narcotics. Chennithala conducted detailed online meetings with all district police chiefs, the Director General of Police, and nodal officers to review local measures. "Operation Toofan has been implemented successfully by the Keralam Police with public support. Steps are now being taken to expand it further and reach more people," he said. He noted that the public, particularly women, are extending major support to the drive. "People are cooperating in all regions, and women, in particular, are extending significant support to Operation Toofan," he said.

According to the Minister, drug usage across Keralam has fallen by more than 30 per cent due to the campaign. Violent crime, law-and-order issues, and murders have also dropped significantly.

Meanwhile, police have cracked down on drunk driving, apprehending around 10,000 individuals during two days of vehicle checks across the state. With festive celebrations underway, Chennithala warned: "Drunk driving will not be allowed under any circumstances. Strict action will be taken under the Motor Vehicles Act, including cancellation of driving licences, particularly in cases involving accidents".