Crackdown on Illegal Spa Activities Intensified in Pimpri-Chinchwad
- Anti-Human Trafficking Cell steps up raids; several arrests and rescues reported
Pimpri: Police have intensified action against alleged illegal and immoral activities being carried out under the guise of spa and wellness centres in Pimpri-Chinchwad, following concerns raised in the Legislative Council.
MLC Amit Gorkhe had raised the issue through a calling attention motion in the Legislative Council, highlighting the seriousness of the matter and the need for stricter regulation. He later met the Police Commissioner and briefed him about the situation in the city.
During the discussion in the House, Gorkhe pointed out that some establishments were misusing spa business licences to run illegal activities. He also stressed the need for a separate and stringent set of rules to regulate spa and wellness centres. Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam assured the House that independent regulations for spa centres would be introduced in the coming months.
Meanwhile, the police have stepped up enforcement and launched special drives against such establishments. On March 25, police conducted a raid at a spa in the Sant Tukaram Nagar area and rescued three women. A case has been registered against the persons involved and one culprit has been arrested in connection with the case.
According to police officials, the Anti-Human Trafficking Cell has taken action against eight establishments so far this year, resulting in the arrest of 20 accused and the rescue of 17 women. In the past three years, authorities have also ordered the closure of 29 such establishments.
Police officials said the crackdown will continue in the coming months to curb illegal activities operating under the cover of spa and wellness businesses.
