Varanasi Rainbow Guest House Sex Scandal: In a late-night crackdown in Varanasi, the Special Operations Group (SOG) raided the Rainbow Guest House in the Lanka area and uncovered an alleged prostitution racket operating from the premises. Acting on specific inputs, the team arrested three young women, a customer, the guest house operator, and two alleged brokers. Police have registered a case against all seven individuals and launched a detailed investigation.
According to officials, the SOG team carried out the operation with careful planning. Officers parked their vehicle at a distance from the guest house to avoid raising suspicion. Dressed in civil attire, they entered the premises and approached the reception desk like regular visitors. During initial questioning, the guest house operator reportedly admitted that women were present inside and that illegal activities were taking place. This confirmation prompted the rest of the team waiting outside to enter and secure the building.
During the search operation, police found two rooms locked from inside. When officers forced open the first room, they discovered a man with young women in an objectionable condition. The second locked room revealed two individuals who allegedly acted as brokers, bringing customers to the guest house. All suspects were taken into custody and shifted to Lanka Police Station for interrogation. Based on a complaint filed by an SOG sub-inspector, a formal case was registered against the accused.
Preliminary investigation revealed that two of the detained women were from West Bengal. Police sources stated that they had been brought to Varanasi just three days before the raid. Investigators suspect the involvement of a broader network that may be transporting women across state lines for illegal activities. Authorities are now examining phone records, financial transactions, and guest registers to identify additional links.
Officials also revealed that brokers allegedly lured both local clients and tourists by advertising “Indian and Russian” options. Police believe this tactic was used to attract visitors seeking illicit services under the cover of accommodation. The development has raised concerns about misuse of hospitality establishments in the holy city.
Authorities have booked all seven accused under relevant provisions of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act and other applicable laws. Further legal action will depend on the findings of the ongoing investigation. Police have indicated that more inspections of hotels and guest houses in Varanasi may follow to prevent similar activities in the future.
Summary – Key Highlights:
The SOG raided Rainbow Guest House in Varanasi’s Lanka area and arrested seven individuals, including three women, a customer, the hotel operator, and two alleged brokers. Two women were reportedly brought from West Bengal three days before the raid. Police registered a case at Lanka Police Station and are probing a possible inter-state network linked to the alleged prostitution racket.
requently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What law applies in such cases?
The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, along with relevant IPC sections, governs such offenses.
2. Were tourists targeted in this racket?
Preliminary investigation suggests clients were lured using offers like “Indian and Russian services,” targeting both locals and visitors.
3. How common are such rackets in North India?
Police across Chandigarh, Punjab, and Haryana have busted multiple similar operations in recent years.
4. What happens to arrested individuals?
They are produced before a magistrate and may face judicial custody or bail depending on charges.
5. Can hotel owners be permanently blacklisted?
Yes, licenses can be suspended or cancelled if involvement is proven.