Hyderabad: On Friday, the Cyberabad Special Operations Team (SOT), together with the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU) and the Madhapur Zone Law & Order Wing, held an important meeting with owners and representatives of spa centers.
Madhapur DCP Dr. Vineeth G led the session, emphasizing the need for legal compliance and industry cooperation to prevent human trafficking and protect the city’s image. Dr. Vineeth clearly stated that any sexual activities at spa centers are forbidden. He added that spa and massage centers must operate between 9 AM and 9 PM and should not be used for living purposes or be near residential areas.
According to the new rules, all massage therapists must hold valid qualifications in Physiotherapy, Acupressure, or Occupational Therapy. A complete record of all employees, including housekeeping, must be kept, and all staff must be at least 18 years old. The centers must follow all relevant laws, including the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act. The center’s name, license number, details, and hours must be visible on site. Information about the license holder, manager, employees, services, and fees should also be clearly displayed.
CCTV cameras with recording features must be installed at entrances, reception, and common areas, with footage kept for at least three months. Centers with more than ten employees must form an Internal Complaints Committee as per the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act.
Dr. Vineeth warned that breaking these rules would lead to legal action. The meeting discussed the Telangana Guidelines (2021) from the High Court, stating that spa centers must keep detailed customer records for police checks, especially for complaints involving opposite-sex services. These records should be available for police officers ranked Sub-Inspector or higher. During business hours, the main entrance door must stay open.
Key officials such as Women & Child Safety Wing (W&CSW) DCP Srujana Karnam, Madhapur SOT DCP Shoban Kumar, Madhapur SOT ADCP Srinivas Reddy, W&CSW ACP Satyanarayana, Miyapur Law & Order ACP Srinivas, AHTU Inspector Jamesh Babu, and many spa center representatives attended the meeting.
