Police Crackdown on Illegal Activities in Pune’s Massage Parlours: 33 Cases Registered in a Year

Pune:

In response to mounting complaints about illegal practices in massage parlours, the Pune Police have intensified their crackdown on establishments allegedly operating prostitution rackets under the guise of spa services. Over the past year, 33 cases have been registered by the city police, with 20 cases filed by the Crime Branch, whereas 12 cases were lodged at various police stations across the city.

Despite these efforts, sources suggest that illegal activities persist in a significant number of the city’s over 400 massage parlours and spas. Reports indicate that only a handful of these establishments adhere to legal and ethical practices. The limited number of police actions relative to the number of parlours has raised questions about the effectiveness of police action so far.

Following multiple complaints of illegal activities at massage parlours lodged with Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, Crime Branch teams conducted raids in areas such as Baner, Kondhwa, and Vishrantwadi. The operators of the raided parlours were booked under the Prevention of Immoral Trafficking Act (PITA). During these operations, several young women were detained and sent to observation homes.

The commissioner has since directed all station chiefs in the city to take strict action against illegal activities in massage parlours, warning of internal departmental action for nonadherence.

Foreign Women Employ in Massage Parlours

The rise of “Thai Spas” in Pune has added another layer of complexity to the issue. Many of these establishments employ young women from Thailand who enter the country on tourist visas. As per Indian visa regulations, tourist visa holders are not permitted to work, but authorities have found numerous instances of Thai nationals illegally employed in massage parlours.

Officials from the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) of the Pune Police revealed that many of these women do not reside at the registered address provided upon entry into India. The FRO routinely takes action against visa violations by issuing notices to offenders, requiring them to leave the country. In cases where they fail to comply, deportation proceedings are also initiated against them.