Thiruvananthapuram Corporation Initiates Major Spa Inspection Drive
The Thiruvananthapuram Corporation has announced a comprehensive inspection drive targeting spa centres operating across the city to verify licences and curb illegal activities. Mayor V V Rajesh made this announcement during a news conference on Sunday, highlighting growing concerns about establishments operating outside legal norms.
Coordinated Effort with Police Forces
The move will be undertaken in close coordination with city police, aiming to address allegations of unethical practices such as 'cross-massage' and other illegal operations. This initiative follows a recent incident where, based on a complaint from a woman, corporation officials and police inspected a spa near the Secretariat on Sunday evening. The spa was subsequently closed after it was found to be functioning illegally and offering cross-massaging services.
The complainant had reported being ill-treated by the spa owner on Saturday night, prompting immediate action. Directions have been issued to verify the licences of all spas within Thiruvananthapuram corporation limits, with joint inspections planned with police officials.
Statewide Scrutiny Following Recent Incidents
The announcement comes amid heightened scrutiny of spa operations statewide, partly triggered by an unrelated incident in Thiruvalla, Pathanamthitta, where a spa employee was allegedly raped by a gangster. Although initial police checks in some city spas confirmed that employees were legally adults, the corporation and police now plan a broader, coordinated operation against illegal and immoral practices.
This is not the first time authorities have targeted spas. In April 2025, law enforcement conducted Operation D-Hunt, raiding around 25 spas and massage centres citywide as part of efforts to curb drug trafficking linked to these establishments. During that operation, a spa near Thampanoor railway station was ordered closed for lacking valid paperwork, and police collected registration details to ensure regulatory compliance.
Strict Licensing Requirements and Allegations
Mayor Rajesh reiterated that corporation licences for spas mandate the presence of qualified masseurs and a doctor on site, requirements that many centres reportedly fail to meet. He alleged that some doctors might be complicit in illegal activities, and details of such cases would be forwarded to the appropriate medical regulatory authority.
In a concerning revelation, the mayor claimed that intelligence reports suggested some police personnel might be linked to mafia networks operating spa businesses. Strict action will be taken against any spa found involved in illegal or immoral activity, including licence cancellation and criminal prosecution supported by police forces.
Upcoming Inspections and Action Plan
The corporation's planned inspections are expected to begin shortly, with authorities promising a detailed action plan following discussions with senior police and municipal officers. This proactive measure aims to ensure that spa centres operate within legal frameworks, safeguarding public welfare and maintaining ethical standards in the industry.
