Bhubaneswar, Oct 30: The Odisha government has amended the Odisha Excise Rules, banning dance performances in bars while permitting musical programmes or orchestras by women aged 21 and above under strict conditions. These performances will be allowed only in licensed 'on shops' selling foreign liquor and Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), with prior written approval from the Excise Commissioner.

Under the revised rules, licenses will only be issued if the premises have CCTV cameras covering the performance stage. The cameras must record continuously, with measures in place to prevent tampering. The footage will be made accessible to the Inspectors-in-Charge (IIC) of local police stations and officers from excise stations.

Performers must wear attire that maintains public decency, and the performance area must be separated from customers by a three-foot railing with a minimum five-foot gap. Additionally, bars are required to provide separate washroom and locker facilities for women performers, along with free travel arrangements to ensure their safety and security.

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