KATHMANDU, June 4: Kathmandu Metropolitan City has conducted inspections of massage parlors and spa centers operating in the Thamel area.
The monitoring was carried out on Wednesday by the Anti-Human Trafficking and Transportation Control Committee of Ward 26, in coordination with Anahat Nepal, Nepal Police, and the Metropolitan Police. The initiative aimed to curb child sexual exploitation and labor abuse in the area.
Committee coordinator Shanta Prajapati said inspectors found several massage and spa centers operating in violation of the code of conduct, while some were running without proper registration.
Spa for the stressed
According to Prajapati, the ward launched the inspection in response to complaints that hotels, massage centers, spas, eateries, lodges, and guest houses in Ward 26 were employing girls under 18 and, in some cases, using them in the sex trade under various pretexts.
“Engaging anyone under the age of 18 in hazardous work, labor, or sexual activities is an unforgivable and punishable crime under Nepali law. Anyone found involved in such activities will face strict legal action under the Human Trafficking and Transportation (Control) Act and the Child Labor (Prohibition and Regulation) Act,” she said.
The metropolitan city said regular inspections of massage and spa centers in Thamel will continue. Businesses have also been instructed to maintain official identification documents verifying the age of employees and to display information boards stating that child labor and sexual exploitation are prohibited.
Prajapati urged the public to immediately inform the ward office or the nearest police station if they become aware of child sexual exploitation or labor abuse.
“Making our ward child friendly and safe is one of our primary responsibilities. No one who jeopardizes the future of children will be spared,” she said.
