Maharashtra assembly passes bill prescribing stricter penalties for 'obscene dance performances'

Business To Business, Mumbai, 07^th July, 2026:    The Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on Tuesday passed a bill bringing licences for orchestras and live music performances under the ambit of the Maharashtra Prohibition of Obscene Dance Act, while proposing stricter penalties to curb violations.
The legislation seeks to prevent the alleged misuse of orchestra licences issued under Section 33 of the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951, for organising obscene dance performances in bars, hotels and other entertainment establishments.
According to the state government, the amendment is intended to strengthen the existing legal framework by extending regulatory oversight to orchestra and live music performance licences, ensuring that such permissions are not used as a cover for activities prohibited under the law.
The bill also provides for enhanced punishments for violations, reflecting the government's intent to enforce stricter compliance and deter the organisation of obscene dance performances under the guise of licensed entertainment.
Officials said the move is aimed at improving enforcement, closing regulatory loopholes and ensuring that establishments operating under orchestra or live music licences adhere to the conditions prescribed under the law.
With the Assembly's approval, the proposed amendments are expected to strengthen the state's regulatory mechanism governing entertainment venues while reinforcing measures to prevent the misuse of licences for unlawful activities.