The proposed ‘Operation Spa’ will target unauthorised establishments amid allegations of sexual exploitation, while the state considers legislation to regulate the sector.
Kerala is preparing to intensify action against illegally operating spas, with Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala announcing a statewide enforcement drive, ‘Operation Spa’. The government is also considering legislation to regulate the sector, following complaints of sexual exploitation, fraudulent practices and establishments operating without the required licences.
Chennithala said the police had been directed to treat the identification of unauthorised spas as a priority. He pointed out that several establishments had been registered under the Shops and Establishments Act without meeting other legal requirements. There was also insufficient clarity about who owned these businesses and what activities were being conducted on their premises, he said.
The minister alleged that women from Kerala and other states were being brought to these establishments for employment and subjected to exploitation. He also referred to complaints of customers being cheated and families being taken advantage of. The government, he said, would take strict legal action against those running spas without the necessary licences and accountability.
The announcement follows two disturbing incidents reported in the state. A 16-year-old girl was allegedly sexually abused at a spa in Kovalam, while a woman was allegedly gang-raped at a spa in Kalamassery. These cases have brought renewed attention to the functioning of establishments operating under the guise of legitimate spa and wellness services.
The Ayurveda Medical Association of India (AMAI) has also called for action against unauthorised Ayurveda spas and massage parlours. The association expressed concern over establishments allegedly conducting illegal activities, including sex trade, without employing qualified professionals. It said it had submitted several complaints to the authorities about such operations.
According to AMAI, businesses operating without adhering to prescribed laws and professional standards are damaging the reputation of Ayurveda and affecting Kerala’s tourism prospects. State president Dr K S Vishnu Namboothiri and state general secretary Dr P K Haridas urged the authorities to shut down such establishments.
The proposed legislation is expected to address regulatory gaps in the sector, while the immediate focus remains on identifying unauthorised businesses and initiating action against those responsible. The government has made clear that establishments found operating illegally will not be allowed to continue.
