Molestation by yoga teacher triggers alarm in Pernem taluka
Locals express concern over the growing number of massage parlours; Local bodies to intervene
PERNEM: The arrest of a yoga instructor and masseur on charges of sexually assaulting a US national and other allegations of molestation have triggered off alarm among residents and local authorities in Pernem taluka.
While residents have expressed concern over the growing number of massage parlours, yoga centres and ayurvedic treatment homes, local bodies have now threatened action against a number of such centres that do not have permission to operate in the area.
Sources have told The Goan that many of the massage and yoga centres operating along Pernem's coast are operating without permission from authorities.
“There has been a sharp rise in the number of massage centres and panchayat concerned have failed to take action till date. Massages are not only given in closed rooms, but in open spaces as well and that too, in full knowledge of local authorities. Many Lamani women also want to make a fast buck and offer to massage tourists in open places like beaches and hills, but no action is taken on them as well.”
“There are some genuine massage parlours and yoga centres operating officially in the area, but their reputation is being tarnished when illegal massage and yoga services are offered by unscrupulous elements. Their reputation is further shattered when some yoga/massage practitioners are arrested on charges of sexual assault and molestation on unsuspecting customers,” the source added.
When contacted, Pernem Police Inspector Rahul Parab said the massage centres should first seek necessary permission from the health department, before a trade licence is to be obtained from the local panchayat.
Asked if the police had maintained a list of those massage centres operating within their jurisdiction, PI Parab replied in the negative.
Commenting on the sexual assault case at a yoga/massage centre in Korgao, Parab said: “The police have asked the accused to submit all documents of the massage centre. We have also directed the other massage centres to submit their documents. Action will be taken on those centres without the mandatory permissions.”
Speaking to The Goan, Arambol Sarpanch Pranali Vaigankar admitted that only 50 percent of massage parlours operating in the village have obtained permissions from the panchayat.
“I have directed all massage parlours to ensure they have the necessary permits, failing which strict action will be initiated against them,” said Vaigankar.
Morjim Sarpanch Nilesh Shetgaonkar said about 12 massage parlours operating in Morjim village do not have any permit.
“I have warned the massage parlours to take permits as early as possible, failing which strict action will be taken against them,” he added.
Recently, the Mandrem gram sabha had witnessed a heated discussion on the issue of massage parlours and Sarpanch Vaishali Shirodkar had assured to take action against the massage centres. However, no action has been taken till date.
