After the Supreme Court’s verdict paving the way for reopening of dance bars in Maharashtra, the BJP-led government is considering bringing an ordinance to stop their operations.
Stating that there can be regulations but not total prohibition, the SC on Thursday set aside some provisions of a 2016 law imposing restrictions on licensing and functioning of dance bars.
Minister for Finance and Planning Sudhir Mungantiwar told PTI on Friday that to protect the cultural fabric of the State, the government is considering bringing an ordinance to stop dance bars from operating.
Mr. Mungantiwar said while the State respects the apex court’s decision, it is firm on its stand that dance bars cannot be allowed to operate. The minister said the issue will be discussed in detail during the weekly State Cabinet meeting next week.
“Once we receive the written orders of the court, our lawyers will study them and based on their recommendations, we will introduce an ordinance in the next two weeks, making changes and strengthening the existing law,” Mr. Mungantiwar said.
Asked if such an ordinance would violate the SC orders, he said there have been court rulings in favour of dance bars. “All parties came together for a law against dance bars. We will do it this time as well,” the minister said.
