In ‘biggest raid’, 30 women rescued from ‘wellness centres’ in Gurugram mall

On September 19, police and Haryana women’s welfare authorities conducted a major operation in a Gurugram mall, rescuing 30 women believed to be victims of illegal sex work. The "biggest raid" saw around 100 officers, including 20 senior inspectors and sub-inspectors, combing 18 "wellness centres" within an eight hour span from 10 pm on Friday to 3 am on Saturday.

The authorities were alerted when about 100 mall workers reported suspicious activities being conducted under the guise of wellness spas. Three minors were among those rescued. The operation was prompted by complaints about the safety of the mall environment, particularly for young women and families, according to Usha Priyadarshi, chairperson of the Haryana State Commission for Women.

Police found what they described as "prima facie evidence" of illegal sex work in at least eight of the centres, including alcohol, cigarettes, and suspicious equipment. The rescued women are being treated as victims and are being recorded for potential trafficking activities. The men operating the centres were questioned, and the property leaseholders are being investigated.