Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 28 January 2025
In a formal complaint addressed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Sri Vijaya Puram, Rakeshwar Lall, State President of Hindu Rashtra Shakti, has raised grave concerns regarding the growing number of spa centers in the region engaged in illegal activities. These establishments, offering massage and wellness services, are reportedly involved in practices that violate local laws and put the health and safety of the public at risk.
Lall’s complaint outlines several serious allegations against the spa centers, including:
1. Unqualified Therapists: A large number of therapists working at these centers are claimed to be operating without proper qualifications, raising concerns over the credibility and safety of the services provided.
2. Unsafe and Unhygienic Conditions: The spas are allegedly operating in unhygienic and unsafe conditions, posing significant health hazards to customers.
3. Illegal Services: Some spa centers are said to be offering illicit services that go beyond wellness treatments, contributing to an environment of exploitation and criminal activity.
4. Lack of Proper Registration: Many of these establishments reportedly lack necessary registrations, including GST and other official documentation, which further questions their legitimacy.
5. Unverified Employees: There are claims that a considerable portion of the staff, hailing from locations like Kolkata, the North Eastern states, and possibly even foreign nationals, are working without proper verification.
In his appeal, Lall has urged the Lt. Governor to take swift action, instructing relevant authorities to investigate these allegations thoroughly. He has emphasized the need for immediate measures to shut down these illegal establishments, ensuring that the welfare of the community, especially vulnerable individuals, is protected.
Copies of the complaint have also been sent to the DGP, the Chief Secretary of A&N Administration, the Deputy Commissioner of South Andaman, and local print media for further attention and necessary action.
The ongoing concerns highlight the pressing need for regulatory oversight and accountability to safeguard the integrity of the region’s wellness sector.