Maharashtra is preparing to change its laws to make sure dance bars cannot reopen. It should be noted that many dance bars still operate by exploiting legal loopholes. Now, the state government plans to present a proposal for amendments at the next cabinet meeting. If approved, the changes will be reviewed in the legislature.
The decision comes after reports that some groups are trying to restart dance bars. As per current plans, the Maharashtra Prohibition of Obscene Dance in Hotels, Restaurants, and Bar Rooms and Protection of Dignity of Women (Working Therein) Act, 2016, will be amended to make opening dance bars extremely difficult.
On Tuesday, February 18, the state cabinet was supposed to approve a draft proposal. However, the discussion was postponed due to suggested changes.
Dance bars in Maharashtra have a long history of legal battles. The state first banned them in 2005 when R. R. Patil was home minister. In 2006, the Bombay High Court overturned the ban. However, in 2013, the Supreme Court upheld the high court’s decision.
To bypass this ruling, the government extended the ban to high-end hotels and clubs in 2014. The Supreme Court later criticised this move. In 2016, Maharashtra passed a new law to prohibit obscene dancing and protect women working in these places. This law made it very difficult for dance bars to operate.
The Supreme Court again criticised the government in 2019 for its strict regulations. Dance bar owners and organisations have since struggled to reopen under the new rules.
The amended law is expected to include strict rules. As per the sources, the new rules will allow only four dancers on stage at a time. Performers and audience members must maintain a respectful distance of two to three meters. Throwing money at dancers will be banned. Smoking inside will also be prohibited. CCTV cameras will be required for monitoring.
However, some groups have also opposed the changes.
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