Law enforcement bound to conduct inspections": Mad HC dismissed plea seeking curb in police inspection in spa-orders installation of CCTV

Justice S.M. Subramaniam of the Madras High Court has insisted on installation of CCTV cameras inside spas and wellness centres. The Court was hearing a plea by the owner of an Ayurvedic Therapy Centre aggrieved by frequent police inspections.

The petitioners have sought relief from interference in any manner of police in the lawful business of MRUTHASANJEVANI Ayurvedic Therapy Centre The Petitioner submitted that Police authorities are frequently interfering with the lawful business activities causing disturbances which resulted in prejudice to the business activities.

Dismissing the petitioner's plea, Justice Subramaniam stated that the petitioner's word cannot be taken as proof that no illegal activity is being conducted at her center. The Court observed that there are large scale allegations in general in the public domain against such Ayurvedic Spa and Massage centers. The police is bound and empowered to act on information.

The Court further noted that cities like Chennai, Coimbatore, large number of such spas and massage centers are suddenly growing within a short span of period and there are numerous allegations against the business activities of these spas and massage centers and more specifically, the allegations of prostitutions are also frequently received the police authorities.

 “This being the informations in the public domain, the law enforcing authorities are bound to conduct frequent inspections to curb any such illegal activities, if noticed. Under these circumstances, no preventive orders can be passed by this Court restraining the law enforcing authorities from exercising their powers in accordance with law and by following the procedures. Such prevention is not only unconstitutional but result in encouragement of crimes in the society,” the Court stated.

While dismissing the petitioner’s plea the Court further ordered:

1. The Police are directed to issue appropriate orders to all the Spa and Massage centers, Therapy centers etc., across the State of Tamil Nadu to install CCTV cameras which must be functional in all circumstances.
2. Appropriate directions are to be issued to ensure that these Spa, Massage centers, Therapy centers etc., are conducting their business activities in a transparent manner and avoid secluded or closed rooms paving way for illegal activities.
3. In the event of any reasonable suspicion, information or complaint, the Police authorities are directed to initiate all appropriate actions in the manner known to law

C.P. Girija v. Superintendent of Police