Ashwani Sharma Early Times Report
Udhampur, Sept 20: In a major crackdown on immoral activities, Udhampur Police raided a spa centre in the Barrian area of Dhar Road on Friday night and busted a brothel being run under the guise of wellness services. The raid at The Blue Lotus Spa and Saloon led to the arrest of seven individuals, including three Males and four females The operation was carried out by SHO Udhampur, Purab Singh, under the close supervision of DySP Udhampur, Parladh Sharma. “Based on reliable information, police teams raided multiple spa centres. At Blue Lotus Spa and Saloon, our suspicions were confirmed, and seven people were apprehended. A case has been registered, and strict action will follow,” DySP Sharma told Early Times. Police confirmed that an FIR (No. 342/2025) has been registered at Police Station Udhampur under Sections 3, 4, 5, and 7 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act. Further investigation is underway. This is not the first time spa centres in Udhampur have come under the police scanner. Several establishments were sealed in November 2024 after locals accused them of promoting immoral activities, operating without proper permissions, and spoiling the town’s social environment. Despite strong protests, many centres resumed operations after completing formalities. Residents remain concerned, pointing out that at least three to four spa centres are still active in Udhampur, including one located barely 200 meters from a reputed school on the National Highway. Locals have once again demanded the permanent closure of such outlets, recalling how one centre in Dhanori was shut down permanently following public outcry. Welcoming the latest action, citizens praised the police for their firmness. “This raid has restored our faith in law enforcement. We hope such illegal practices will no longer be allowed to flourish,” said a local resident. Police authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining public order, making it clear that anyone found indulging in such unlawful activities would face stern legal consequences. |