Maharashtra Shifts Orchestra Bar Licences to 2016 Act to Curb Illegal Dance Bars

The Maharashtra government has issued a Government Resolution stating that no new Live Music Performance licences will be granted under the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951, and existing ones will not be renewed. Instead, all orchestra licences in Mumbai and across the state will now be strictly regulated under the Maharashtra Hotels, Restaurants and Bar Rooms (Prohibition on Obscene Dance and Protection of Dignity of Women Working Therein) Act, 2016, in an effort to curb illegal dance bars.

According to the resolution, the state government noticed that establishments were using orchestra permits as an alternative method to bypass restrictions on dance bars. Following the enforcement of the 2016 Act, Maharashtra had recorded a significant drop in dance bar licences due to the strict regulations governing dance performances.

To plug this loophole, the State Legislature previously amended the 2016 law to bring orchestra permits under its jurisdiction. The move aims to maintain strict oversight over live music performances and prevent unauthorized dance activities inside bars and restaurants.

Under the new framework, all existing orchestra licences issued under the 1951 law will lapse without renewal, and any future permits will be issued under the amended 2016 legislation.