In light of the rising complaints regarding the malpractices in certain spas and unisex parlors, Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has presented a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for spas, salons and beauty parlors which prohibits therapy or massage for clients by opposite sex.

As per the SOP guidelines: steam bath facilities may be provided but opposite sex shall not assist in any way; no exclusive rooms/chambers should be made in their premises; main doors should be transparent and qualified therapists should be employed.

According to the Joint Commissioner, GMC, these SOPs were based on the principle of ‘Ease of Doing Business’ and there were no objections to entrepreneurs starting haircutting salons/beauty parlours/spas in the city.