Kozhikode Corporation to continue crackdown on illegal spa operators

Inspections launched by the Kozhikode Corporation’s health wing failed to track many illegal spa operators as most of them reportedly locked their rented facilities and cleared the spot on learning about the drive. Some operators reportedly removed their boards and switched off phones.

Welcoming the flash inspections, owners of a few licensed units said the checks must be expanded across the district. They said several illegal operators lacked even proper addresses or trained therapists.

A few Ayurveda practitioners too alleged attempts by illegal spa operators to attract customers. They said their associations had been seeking action against such units.

Meanwhile, sources in the Corporation said the flash inspections were just the beginning of an intensified action plan to expose illegal operators in the field. They said those who rent out their spaces for unlicensed ventures would be held accountable.

Police sources said details of therapists at spa centres would be examined in detail to rule out human trafficking attempts.