Guidelines for Spa Centers

Hyderabad, July 4: The Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU) of Cyberabad Police, in coordination with its Law and Order wing and Special Operations Team (SOT), issued a comprehensive set of guidelines for spa centers in Hyderabad on Friday. The move aims to curb unlawful activities and ensure legal compliance within the wellness industry.

Spa centers have been explicitly prohibited from operating in residential areas or engaging in any form of sexual activity. Additionally, operating hours have been strictly limited to between 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM.

During an awareness meeting held for spa center owners and representatives, authorities highlighted the need for all masseurs and masseuses to hold valid certifications in physiotherapy, acupressure, or occupational therapy. Only individuals over the age of 18 may be employed, and a detailed register must be maintained with the personal and professional details of all staff, including housekeeping personnel.

Centers are also mandated to comply with all relevant laws, including the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act. Each spa must display the name of the establishment, its license number, the names of managers and staff, working hours, a list of services offered, and corresponding fees.

To enhance transparency and security, CCTV cameras must be installed at the entrance, reception, and all common areas, with footage preserved for a minimum of three months. For establishments with over ten employees, forming an Internal Complaints Committee is compulsory under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act.

As per a recent directive by the Telangana High Court, spas are also required to maintain a register of customers, including names, verified addresses, phone numbers, and visit dates, particularly in cases involving opposite-sex massage services.

In a final note, authorities emphasized that the main entrance door must remain open during operational hours, reinforcing transparency and compliance with the law.