3,000 unlicensed spas in Kerala; honey traps, drug trade flourish

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: According to police data, there are approximately 3,000 spas operating without authorisation in Kerala. Some of these establishments function under a small-scale industry license, while others operate completely without any license. There have been numerous complaints about young women being sexually exploited after being promised jobs at these spas.

Issues such as blackmail involving secretly recorded footage of massage customers and honey-trap schemes persist, along with drug trafficking. Sexual exploitation, honey traps, and drug sales are reportedly rampant in the unlicensed premium segment of the spa industry.

Kerala also has many authorised spas that provide wellness treatments. These licensed establishments typically employ trained staff and have qualified medical professionals on board. In Kochi, there are around 500 spas, while Thiruvananthapuram has more than 200.

In the capital district, spas are mainly concentrated in Kovalam, Varkala, and Vizhinjam. Most unauthorised establishments operate out of private homes and apartments. Young women are often recruited through advertisements on social media, after which they are reportedly threatened and assaulted to force them into activities against their will. Additionally, many of these establishments fail to comply with the requirement to install CCTV cameras in reception areas and entrances.

Illegal cross-massaging is reportedly common among many spas. By regulation, massages should be performed by male therapists for male customers and female therapists for female customers. Cross-massaging involves violating this rule, and those responsible could face charges including rape, wrongful confinement, drug use, and human trafficking.

Women trapped through secretly recorded footage

• Vulnerable women are allegedly lured with promises of employment, given drugs, and trapped using secretly recorded private footage. They are further exploited through recordings made during massage sessions.
• Women from northeastern states, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka are brought in to work at spas, often without any training.
• Fake certificates are reportedly being used to obtain operating licenses. Spa licenses should only be issued to those who have completed recognized courses by the AYUSH Department, but a network that facilitates the acquisition of fake certificates is reportedly functioning.

“Strong police action will be taken against those who engage in illegal activities, intimidation, robbery, and sex rackets under the guise of spas.”

— Ramesh Chennithala, Home Minister