Silchar : Police in Assam’s Silchar town have arrested two spa-cum-beauty parlour owners and detained 26 women following raids on two establishments allegedly involved in illegal activities.

The operation was carried out on Thursday after police received specific intelligence inputs regarding suspected unlawful activities at certain spa centres operating in the town. The raids targeted Lovely Spa Centre and Lotus Spa Centre, both located inside the Imperial Shopping Mall, bringing renewed attention to the rapid growth of spa businesses in Silchar.

Addressing reporters on Friday, Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime) Rajat Pal said the action was based on credible information indicating that illegal trade was being conducted from the premises.

“The 26 women detained during the raids have been brought to Silchar Sadar Police Station for questioning and verification,” Pal said.

Police arrested the owners of the two establishments, identified as Puja Das and Hirak Debnath. A case has been registered at Silchar Sadar Police Station under Case No. 584/2026.

The case has been filed under Sections 318(4), 296, 132, 270 and 112(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Sections 3, 4, 7 and 8 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITPA).

According to police, several objectionable items were recovered during the raids. However, officials declined to disclose details of the seized materials, stating that they form part of the evidence being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.

“We have recovered some objectionable items from the spas. The investigation is underway,” Pal said.

Investigators are currently verifying the identities and roles of the detained women to determine whether they were employees, customers, or possible victims of trafficking and exploitation. Police officials emphasised that no conclusions would be drawn until the verification process is completed and statements from those detained are recorded.

Pal also advised residents to exercise caution while visiting spa and wellness centres, urging customers to ensure that such establishments possess valid licences and operate within the legal framework.

The crackdown has sparked discussion over the increasing number of spa centres operating in Silchar and allegations that some establishments may be misused for unlawful activities. Police said further action would depend on the findings of the ongoing investigation.