TV
Two bars in the city have come under the scanner of the Excise department for allegedly engaging women without proper verification and permission. Acting on reliable sources, the Excise department sealed the two bars for unauthorized engagement of women.
An excise team raided these premises after receiving reports that women were being employed without the requisite permission. A preliminary probe found the two bars flouting the rules for which they were sealed, informed an Excise officer.
“Two bars have been sealed. One is Ambiance Bar and Restaurant and the other one is Barbie Bar and Restaurant. They are sealed for the engagement of women without proper verification and permission. CCTV footages show they were engaging women. So, we have sealed both the bars,” informed an Excise Officer.
Meanwhile, the Excise Department has stepped up its actions in Bhubaneswar, focusing on bars allegedly violating regulations. All excise stations have been asked to conduct frequent raids and take action against bars flouting norms.
Previously, Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan had warned that strict action would be taken against violations of the bar dance ban law. He emphasized that activities opposing ‘Odia Asmita’ and culture would not be tolerated.
The Excise Department has banned bar dancers' engagement, except for musical performances. The state excise rules have set specific conditions for granting permission to engage women in bars to ensure their safety. Bar owners must install CCTV cameras, provide details of female employees, and ensure that female performers do not wear provocative clothing or exhibit nudity.
Meanwhile, bar owners urged the excise department to expedite the permission process, stating that the livelihood of several women was at risk.
