JAMMU, FEBRUARY 11: To regulate the functioning of spa and massage centers and curb their alleged misuse for unlawful and immoral activities, the District Magistrate of Jammu, Dr. Rakesh Minhas, has issued an order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.
The order follows reports that certain spa and massage centers in the district were allegedly being used for immoral activities, including prostitution, posing a threat to public order and safety.
Under the order, a spa or massage center is defined as any premises, establishment, shop, clinic, or commercial space—regardless of its name—that offers or claims to offer massage, body therapy, spa therapy, wellness, or relaxation services, Ayurvedic therapy, or physiotherapy (except those run by qualified registered medical practitioners), whether for payment or otherwise. These directions apply to all such establishments operating within the territorial jurisdiction of the Jammu district.
The order strictly prohibits any immoral activity within these premises. Cross-gender massage is not permitted; male masseurs may attend to male clients and female masseurs to female clients only. Treatment rooms must not have internal locks, latches, or bolts, and services cannot be provided behind locked doors.
The installation of CCTV cameras at entry points, reception areas, and common areas (excluding private rooms) is mandatory, with recordings to be preserved for at least 30 days. Centers are also barred from operating before 8:00 am or after 9:00 pm. Female employees are not allowed to use the premises as a residence or stay overnight. The supply or consumption of alcohol or any intoxicants on the premises is strictly prohibited.
Customers must present valid identity proof, and centers are required to maintain a register with their contact details. Employers must also maintain a record of all employees, ensure that staff wear identity cards during working hours, and refrain from employing anyone below 18 years of age. Additionally, all owners, managers, and employees—including therapists, receptionists, and support staff—must undergo police verification.
The order further mandates the installation of display boards in English and Hindi at reception areas, detailing the site plan of the premises, the number of beds designated for male and female sections, and information about employees, including their designation and qualifications. Owners and managers must submit an affidavit to the nearest police station within 10 days, affirming compliance with the prescribed conditions.
Any violation of the order will result in immediate closure and sealing of the establishment, along with prosecution of owners, managers, and employees under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act.
The Senior Superintendent of Police, Jammu, has been directed to ensure strict enforcement of the order. Sub-Divisional Magistrates and Tehsildars have been tasked with conducting periodic inspections and submitting compliance reports to the District Magistrate’s office.
The order has taken immediate effect and will remain in force for eight weeks from the date of issuance, unless modified or withdrawn earlier. The District Administration has reiterated its commitment to maintaining public order and ensuring the lawful operation of commercial establishments in the district.