Odia Jatra artist Nisha Maharana’s obscene dance in Chhattisgarh triggers action; 17 arrested, SDM transferred

The Gariaband district administration in Chhattisgarh has taken strict action following an allegedly obscene dance performance by Odia artiste Nisha Maharana at a Jatra event, leading to the arrest of organisers, the transfer of a senior revenue official and the suspension of police personnel.

The action was initiated after a video of an obscene item dance performed during an opera programme went viral on social media, prompting administrative and police intervention.
Obscene Performance Triggers Administrative Action

According to official sources, Odisha-based Banadurga Gananatya was granted permission to stage jatra performances at Urmal in Gariaband district from January 4 to January 10. On January 9, Nisha Maharana performed a stage show during the programme, which allegedly led to a commotion due to the nature of the dance.

Following the incident, and on the directions of the Gariaband District Collector, the jatra performance was stopped on January 10.

Organisers Arrested, Officials Transferred

After the video circulated online, police arrested 17 organisers associated with the event. The district administration also took action against officials responsible for granting permission for the programme. Sub-Divisional Magistrate Tulsidas Markam was transferred for approving the opera event.

In addition, three police personnel who were present during the jatra performance on the day of the incident were suspended. The action was confirmed by the Gariaband District Collector.

Monitoring To Prevent Recurrence

The Gariaband Additional Superintendent of Police said the administration is maintaining strict vigilance to ensure that such incidents are not repeated in the future.

The incident has sparked widespread discussion in Odisha, with questions being raised over whether similar action will be taken against obscene dances in jatra performances in the state.

Officials Speak

Gariaband Collector Bhagwan Singh Uikey said, “A cultural event was organised in which this obscenity was also shown. Action was taken against the official who gave permission for this and those who were present there. The SDO was removed from his position. Further investigation is underway, and if they are found guilty, action will be taken to suspend them.”

Also Read: Tension flares in Koraput after police bar jatra actor Nisha Maharana performing on stage

Gariaband Additional SP Dhirendra Patel said, “Action was taken against those involved. Initially, action was taken against four individuals and then yesterday against 13 others. Apart from this, it was reported that some police personnel were also present there. They were suspended by the SP, and other officials were informed that if they are involved in such cultural events, action will be taken against them as well.”