Jammu, J&K (India): The detention of three Thai women and the alleged illegal activities reported at two separate spa and massage centres in Jammu district have prompted the authorities to issue a regulatory order.
The order has been issued in view of reports that certain spa and massage centres operating in Jammu district were allegedly being used for immoral activities, prostitution, and other unlawful acts, posing a threat to public order and safety.
“To prevent misuse of such establishments for unlawful and immoral activities, the District Magistrate, Jammu, Dr. Rakesh Minhas, has issued an order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023,” reads the order issued by the DM.
The order defines a spa or massage centre as any premises, establishment, shop, clinic, or commercial space—by whatever name called—that offers or claims to offer massage, body therapy, spa therapy, wellness therapy, relaxation services, Ayurvedic therapy, or physiotherapy (other than those run by qualified and registered medical practitioners), whether for consideration or otherwise, within the territorial jurisdiction of Jammu district.
As per the order, engaging in any form of immoral activity within the premises has been strictly prohibited.
“Cross-gender massage shall not be permitted, and there shall be provision of male masseurs for male clients and female masseurs for female clients only,” the order states.
No Internal Locking Mechanisms in Treatment Rooms
The order further stipulates that no internal locks, latches, bolts, or locking mechanisms shall be installed in treatment rooms, and that spa or massage services shall not be provided behind locked doors.
The installation of CCTV cameras at entry points, reception areas, and common areas—excluding private rooms—has been made mandatory, with a minimum recording retention period of thirty days.
The order also directs that no centre shall operate before 8:00 AM or after 9:00 PM. No female employee shall use the premises as a residence or for overnight stay.
The supply or consumption of alcohol or any other intoxicant within the premises has been prohibited. The mandatory production of valid identity proof by all customers shall be ensured, and a proper register containing their contact details shall be maintained.
All employees must wear identity cards issued by the employer during working hours, and the employer shall maintain a register of all employees. No employee below eighteen years of age shall be engaged.
Further, all owners, managers, and employees—including therapists, receptionists, and support staff—must undergo police verification.
The order also mandates that display boards in both English and Hindi be installed at appropriate places at the reception, containing the site plan of the premises, the category-wise number of beds for male and female sections, and details of employees, including their designations and qualifications.
Owners and managers have been directed to submit an affidavit in the form of an undertaking to the nearest police station within ten days, confirming compliance with all prescribed conditions.
It has been stipulated that any spa or massage centre found violating the order shall be liable for immediate closure and sealing, in addition to prosecution of the owners, managers, and employees under relevant laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act.
SSP, SDMs and Tehsildars Directed to Inspect Spa Centres
The Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Jammu, has been directed to ensure effective enforcement of the order, while Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) and Tehsildars have been instructed to conduct periodic inspections of such establishments within their respective jurisdictions and submit compliance reports to the Office of the District Magistrate.
The order has come into force with immediate effect and shall remain operative for a period of eight weeks from the date of issuance, unless withdrawn, modified, or rescinded earlier.
The District Administration has reiterated its commitment to maintaining public order and ensuring that all commercial establishments operate strictly in accordance with the law.
Three Thai Women Detained in Jammu
Jammu Police arrested two women, nationals of Thailand, for allegedly violating immigration laws and indulging in illegal activities during a raid at a spa centre in Narwal.
In another raid at a spa centre in Channi Himmat, Jammu Police detained a woman, also a Thai national.DD
Correspondent Jammu
