Bhubaneswar, Jan 14: The Odisha government is set to take strict action against obscene dance performances in Jatra pandals. Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has issued a strong warning, stating that vulgar and nude dances will not be tolerated during Jatra performances in the state. He said public opinion in Odisha is clear on the issue and emphasized that cultural values must be protected.
The Law Minister added that the Culture Department and the state government have already issued clear instructions to Jatra organizers and party owners. He warned that if item girls are found performing obscene dances in pandals, strict consequences will follow. He also indicated that Odisha could take action similar to that recently seen in Chhattisgarh.
The warning comes in the wake of a controversy in Chhattisgarh, where an obscene dance performed by item girl Nisha Maharana at a Jatra pandal went viral on social media. Following the incident, the Gariaband district administration took tough action. Chhattisgarh Police arrested 17 organizers, while the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Tulsidas Makaram, who had granted permission for the event, was transferred. Additionally, three police personnel present during the performance were suspended. The Gariaband District Collector confirmed the action, while the district’s Additional SP said strict monitoring would be ensured to prevent such incidents in future.
According to official sources, Odisha-based Bandurga Gananatya had received permission to stage Jatra performances in Urmal, Chhattisgarh, from the 4th to the 10th of the month. On the 9th, the controversial dance performance took place, which later went viral on social media. Acting on the directions of the District Collector, the Jatra was stopped on the 10th.
The incident has sparked widespread discussion in Chhattisgarh and has drawn the attention of authorities in Odisha as well. Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan reiterated that the Odisha government would not hesitate to take strict action if similar violations occur in the state.
