Thrissur, 19 Oct (H.S.): The Keralam government will intensify statewide inspections of spas under “Operation Spa” following mounting complaints about illegal operations and sexual exploitation, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said.

The drive aims to identify establishments operating unlawfully and prevent exploitation at such centres. Police will inspect spas across the state, with further raids planned in the coming days, the minister told reporters in Thrissur.

Chennithala said several establishments had opened under the Shops and Establishments Act without complying with applicable legal requirements. He expressed concern over inadequate scrutiny of their ownership and activities.

“Spas are being opened across Kerala under the Shops and Establishments Act without following the rules. There is little clarity about who runs them or what happens inside. Complaints indicate that girls are being exploited. This cannot be accepted,” he said.

The minister said legal action would be taken against establishments found functioning illegally. Cases had already been registered against several spas, and the inspection drive would be expanded to cover more premises.

He also said the government was considering stronger legislation to regulate the sector and address concerns surrounding establishments operating under registrations obtained through the Shops and Establishments Act.

The proposed legislative measures remain under consideration. Chennithala did not announce a timeline for introducing them or outline the specific provisions being examined.

His remarks signal a broader government response to complaints that some establishments are using spa operations as a cover for exploitation. The minister emphasised that police inspections would focus on detecting unlawful activities and initiating action against those responsible.

The government’s immediate priority, he indicated, is to strengthen enforcement through coordinated inspections while examining whether additional legal safeguards are required.

Further raids will be conducted over the coming days as authorities pursue complaints and scrutinise the functioning of establishments suspected of violating the law, Chennithala said.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman