Bhubaneswar, Nov 1: The Odisha government clarified on Friday that bars in the state are permitted to host only musical programs, with any attempt to include dance shows resulting in severe consequences. Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan emphasized that dance performances are explicitly banned in all bars, and establishments found violating this directive risk having their licenses revoked.
The government recently amended the Odisha Excise (Amendment) Rules, 2024, allowing bars to conduct only orchestra and musical programs. Harichandan stressed the importance of ensuring that all events in bars remain consistent with Odia culture and that bars must strictly follow the guidelines for hosting these musical events.
According to the notification issued by the Excise Department, women over the age of 21 may be engaged in musical programs at licensed bars selling foreign liquor and Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) on-site, but only with prior written permission from the Excise Commissioner. Before granting such permission, the Excise Commissioner will impose several restrictions, including the installation of CCTV cameras in key areas, particularly the performance stage, ensuring they are operational 24/7 and not tampered with. The recorded footage must also be accessible to the officer in charge of the local police station and the Excise Station.
Bars in Odisha face penalties for hosting dance shows, says Law Minister
