Navi Mumbai: Municipal Corporation Cracks Down On Illegal Dance Bars Amid Allegations Of Political Patronage
Navi Mumbai, 24th October 2023: In a dramatic turn of events, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation has initiated a relentless drive to eradicate illegal dance bars within its jurisdiction. These establishments have long been accused of enjoying protection from influential politicians, senior government officials, and even law enforcement officers. As a result, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation has boldly decided to take on these clandestine nightspots throughout the city.
The crackdown extends to bars located within Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, and Panvel Municipalities, potentially bringing numerous such establishments under scrutiny.
The operation is aimed at scrutinising the licences of these dance bars, focusing on the construction and design of the premises as well as the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs). Any trace of illegal construction is met with punitive action, potentially leading to the immediate demolition of the entire establishment.
In a striking display of determination, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation has already demolished 50 bars, making it clear that they will not be swayed by the influence of bar owners who appear to have the government’s apparatus in their grip.
A senior police officer suggested that similar actions may be taken in Mumbai, setting the stage for a comprehensive crackdown on illegal dance bars in the region.
As per the report, 400 such dance bars are identified in other cities besides Mumbai. Shockingly, it was estimated that around 75 thousand women are employed in barely a thousand dance bars in the city.
In an effort to tighten the reins on these venues, the state government introduced stricter regulations in 2016. However, on January 17, 2019, the Supreme Court lifted the ban on dance bars, resulting in a resurgence in their numbers. Unfortunately, this resurgence also paved the way for the proliferation of illegal bars, an issue that is far from hidden, given its alleged ties to political leaders and government officials.
Although the construction of dance bars remains a topic of ongoing discussion, the court imposed specific rules governing their operation when it lifted the ban. Regrettably, there are concerns that these rules are being disregarded, with allegations of wilful negligence by the State Excise Department and law enforcement agencies.
