Delhi Govt Issues Strict Guidelines For Spa & Massage Centres; Details Here

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Government made strict provisions in this regard after the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) raised the issue of irregularities and sexual exploitation at such centres.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. (File Photo)

New Delhi: In a bid to prevent sexual exploitation and trafficking, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has issued new guidelines for the operation of spas and massage centres in the national capital.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Government made strict provisions in this regard after the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) raised the issue of irregularities and sexual exploitation at such centres.

The AAP Government had also constituted a task force to review and act on the DCW’s report.

Below are the major guidelines issued by the Delhi Government to obtain a license for the operation of spas and massage centres:

• The massage therapists and clients have to be of the same gender. The therapists employed need to have a degree, diploma, or certificate in physiotherapy, acupressure or occupational therapy
• CCTV cameras with recording facility will be installed at the center entrance, reception and common areas. The recording has to be retained for at least three months
• Cross-gender massage shall not be allowed in spa and massage centres. Provision for masseur for males and masseuse for females shall be made
• Male and female spa sections shall be in different areas and demarcated with separate entry and no inter-connection
• The spa/ massage centre services shall not be provided behind locked doors. There shall be no latchet and bolt inside the doors of spa/massage centre chambers. There shall be a provision of self-closing doors
• The external doors of the massage/spa establishment shall be kept open during working hours
• Mandatory provision for the production of ID cards of all customers shall be ensured and a register containing their contact details including phone numbers and ID proof shall be maintained.
• The spa/massage centres can remain open only between 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and proper lighting arrangements will have to be made in each room
• The spa/massage centres should have separate toilets and bathrooms for men and women with proper drainage system.
• There will be separate changing rooms for men and women in the spa/massage centres
• The premises of spa/massage centres shall not be used for residential purposes nor shall any part of its premises be operated for residential purposes
• The spa/massage centres shall ensure cleanliness of the premises by employing necessary staff for cleaning/housekeeping works