As Guwahati's vibrant cultural scene dims after dark, an illicit trade in sex tourism and escort services emerges, exploiting the vulnerable and casting a shadow over the city’s reputation
As night falls in Guwahati, a different side of the city emerges. Sex workers can be seen taking up positions in various parts of the city, often targeting areas near hotels and popular tourist spots. What was once a city known for its cultural richness and natural beauty is now facing the challenge of a rise in escort services and sex tourism, including the involvement of underage girls. This illicit trade is spreading rapidly, creating concern among residents and activists alike about the city’s future and its impact on the vulnerable populations involved.
Rajiv Kumar Sharma, Chief Functionary of the Global Organisation for Life Development (GOLD) said, “Sex tourism is very much an underground business here in Guwahati,” he stated. Sharma explained that the increase in sex tourism is a common phenomenon wherever there is a growth in tourism, particularly in areas with high-end hotels that cater primarily to visitors.
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“Wherever tourism develops, you will find chances of escort services emerging,” Sharma noted. “For example, in high-end hotels where the main purpose is tourism, there is a likelihood of such activities. Even near popular tourist spots like Kaziranga and other places, there are similar activities in nearby areas,” he added.
In June 2024, an operation in Guwahati led to the arrest of six people at a spa salon in Noonmati who were suspected of running a prostitution racket. These arrests were made on the grounds of their suspected involvement in operating a prostitution racket under the guise of a legitimate business. This incident is not isolated; similar raids have been conducted over the past year, particularly targeting spa owners accused of facilitating human trafficking and exploiting women and minors for sex work.
"Many of these spas and salons are not just places for beauty treatments; they have become fronts for illicit activities. These businesses often operate in plain sight, disguising their illegal operations as legitimate enterprises", Sharma told GPlus. He emphasised that such establishments have become hotbeds for prostitution, with some involved in far more serious offenses like human trafficking.
How the network operates: A web of secrecy and technology
Sharma revealed that the operation of sex tourism in Guwahati is far more organised than many would believe. "Apart from physical locations, there are several agencies running escort services," he pointed out. Sharma highlighted that these services have moved beyond the shadows of alleys and into the digital realm. “There are websites dedicated to this business. And then there are online groups where they operate. You will find friendship groups or other social media circles where they recruit or advertise," he explained.
He emphasised that this is not a secret within certain circles. “I am quite certain that even police officials are aware of these activities," he said, indicating that while there is knowledge about these networks, actions to dismantle them may not be sufficient.
Sharma also pointed out that the underlying issue driving this underground trade is poverty. “There are individuals who see this as their only source of income. The reason behind such activities is rooted deeply in poverty,” Sharma stated.
He further elaborated, “The operators always target vulnerable areas where families are struggling financially. This makes it easier for them to continue their operations. This cycle of exploitation continues” Sharma added, highlighting the predatory nature of these networks that exploit the most vulnerable.
The extent of this underground network stretches beyond just digital platforms and discreet locations. Sharma mentioned the surprising involvement of local residents in this illegal trade. “Even some of the taxi drivers are involved in this. They act as intermediaries, linking customers with the service providers. It’s a big racket,” he revealed. This indicates that the network is more extensive and deeply rooted than many might expect, involving people from various strata of society who may see it as an additional income stream.
He further stressed the need for public awareness, stating, "We should raise awareness about these issues, this problem will only continue to grow."
The dilemma now facing Guwahati is clear: will it allow this underground trade to expand unchecked, or will it take a firm stand to protect its residents and maintain its image as a city of culture and hospitality?
