Madhur Bhandarkar supports SC judgement on dance bars; insists safety of women working there should be the focus

The Supreme Court on Thursday (January 17) modified some provisions of the 2016 Maharashtra law imposing restrictions on licensing and functioning of dance bars in the state, stating there cannot be “total prohibition”, though certain regulations need to be in place. An apex court bench headed by Justice AK Sikri, cleared the path for licences allowing dance bars to operate. The court allowed tips to performers, but disallowed the showering of currency on them.

Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar has lauded the Supreme Court judgement on dance bars. Bhandarkar who has made the crtically-acclaimed film Chandni Bar, said, “I personally feel that it’s a good judgement passed by the Supreme Court, as so many families are affected by it. But not just the judgement, I appreciate the clauses that are being put in place regarding issues like showering of money, and even ruling against the mandatory installation of CCTV as it violates right to privacy.”

The filmmaker expressed concern about the safety of women working in dance bars. The filmmaker added, “I only wish that the focus would be on safety and security of women working in dance bars. They have as much right to working with dignity, safety and security as any other woman working to run her family. That should be ensured at all levels.”

The Supreme Court also quashed a rule that segregated the dancing stage from the bar area where drinks are served. Another condition laid down by the Court states that the dance bars should be at least one km away from educational and religious places.