Bhubaneswar, Oct 30: Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan emphasized on Wednesday that the Odisha government is committed to maintaining decency in public spaces by prohibiting dance performances in bars. He stated that bar dancing has been banned and that measures will be implemented to prevent obscenity during jatra shows, as such performances are contrary to Odia culture.
In response to concerns raised by bar owners who have taken legal action, Harichandan confirmed that the government has amended the rules and will inform the court about these changes.
Under the revised regulations, only orchestras and musical performances will be permitted in bars. Regarding the issue of inappropriate dance during jatra shows, the Minister announced plans to convene a meeting with jatra troupe owners to address this matter.
He reiterated the government’s dedication to preserving the sanctity of Odia culture, indicating that new rules will soon be introduced to ban obscene dance performances in jatra. Recently, the state government issued a notification allowing bars to host orchestras and musical programmes under the amended Odisha Excise (Amendment) Rules, 2024.