Odisha bans dance performances in bars, allows orchestras with strict regulations

Bhubaneswar, Oct 30: The Odisha government has revised the Odisha Excise Rules to impose a ban on dance performances in bars. Under the new regulations, dance bars are prohibited, but women aged 21 and older are permitted to perform musical programs or orchestras in licensed ‘on shops’ that sell foreign liquor and Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), provided they obtain prior written consent from the Excise Commissioner.

According to the amended guidelines, a license will be issued only if the venue is equipped with CCTV cameras positioned to cover the performance area adequately. These systems must have features to ensure continuous recording and prevent tampering. The footage will be shared with the Inspector In Charge (IIC) of local police stations and the Officer In Charge (OIC) of Excise stations.

Performers are mandated to dress in a manner that reflects public decency. Additionally, the performance area must be enclosed by a three-foot high railing, with a minimum distance of five feet separating it from the audience. Bars are also required to provide separate washroom and locker facilities for female performers and arrange free transportation for their safety.

Moreover, smoking will be prohibited within the establishments, in line with regulations against smoking in public spaces.