JAMMU, February 11, 2026 — To curb unlawful and immoral activities within commercial wellness establishments, the District Magistrate of Jammu, Dr. Rakesh Minhas, has issued a comprehensive regulatory order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.
The directive follows reports that certain establishments were allegedly being used for prostitution and other illegal acts, posing a significant threat to public safety and order.
The order applies to all premises in Jammu district offering massage, body therapy, or relaxation services, excluding those operated by registered medical practitioners.
Under the new regulations, cross-gender massage is strictly prohibited, mandating that male customers be attended to only by male masseurs and female customers by female masseurs.
To ensure transparency, treatment rooms must not have internal locks, latches, or bolts, and services cannot be provided behind locked doors. Mandatory security measures include the installation of CCTV cameras in entry and common areas with at least 30 days of recording retention.
Operating hours have been restricted to between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM, and the consumption or supply of alcohol and intoxicants on the premises is entirely banned.The order further imposes strict administrative requirements, including mandatory police verification for all owners, managers, and employees.
Establishments are prohibited from employing individuals under 18 years of age, and female employees are not permitted to reside or stay overnight at the center. Display boards in English and Hindi must be placed at receptions showing site plans and employee details.
Any center found violating these directives faces immediate closure and sealing, with owners subject to prosecution under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act. This order is effective immediately and will remain in force for eight weeks unless modified.
