The Kerala government is actively considering enacting legislation to strictly regulate Ayurvedic and wellness spa establishments across the state following an influx of complaints concerning sexual exploitation of women and financial fraud, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said. He issued a stern warning that any spa found functioning in violation of statutory laws would be forcibly shut down.
Speaking to media personnel on the sidelines of a Scouts and Guides event in Thrissur on Monday, Chennithala disclosed that state police forces have been executing coordinated, statewide raids under ‘Operation Spa’ over the past three to four days to root out illegal establishments and curb illicit activities.
“Spas are being opened across Kerala under the Shops and Establishments Act without fulfilling or adhering to mandatory legal requirements. There is currently very little transparency regarding the ownership of these facilities or the nature of activities conducted inside. The government is taking this issue seriously and contemplating comprehensive legislation to bring the sector under strict oversight,” the Home Minister stated.
Elaborating further, Chennithala highlighted that reports have surfaced from various districts regarding women being brought from within Kerala and other states, employed at these centers, and subjected to alleged exploitation. Additionally, several customers have reportedly fallen victim to financial fraud and extortion practices at illegal centers.
The proposed legislation aims to establish robust regulatory control over the industry, preventing illegal trades from operating under the guise of legitimate wellness businesses. Noting that numerous centers currently function without valid municipal licenses or accountability measures, the Minister clarified that while legitimately operated wellness centers would not be harassed, illegal and unauthorized establishments would face immediate closure.
For more details: Navamalayalam.com