Odisha’s bars face license cancellation for violating dance show ban

Bhubaneswar, Nov 1: The Odisha government has reiterated that bars in the state are permitted only to host musical programs, firmly stating that any attempts to organize dance performances will result in severe penalties. Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan announced that all forms of dance shows are prohibited in bars, with violations leading to the cancellation of licenses.

The recent amendment to the Odisha Excise (Amendment) Rules, 2024, specifies that bars may only conduct orchestra and musical events. Minister Harichandan emphasized the importance of aligning all bar activities with Odia cultural values, urging strict compliance with the established guidelines for musical programming.

Additionally, a notification from the Excise Department clarifies that women aged 21 and above may participate in musical performances at licensed establishments selling foreign liquor and Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), provided they obtain prior written approval from the Excise Commissioner. However, specific conditions will accompany this permission, including the installation of CCTV cameras in key areas, such as the performance stage. These cameras must be operational at all times and tamper-proof. The recorded footage is required to be shared with the local police and the Excise Station's officer-in-charge.