Bar Dancers Approach Maharashtra Women’s Commission, Allege Misconduct by Mumbai Police

Mumbai: In a serious allegation that has once again brought Mumbai’s dance bar industry into controversy, women working as bar dancers in Andheri have approached the Maharashtra State Women’s Commission, accusing local police officials of harassment and inappropriate behaviour.

According to the complaint submitted by the women, police personnel allegedly forcefully take selfies without consent, enter changing rooms, and demand personal details such as home addresses and phone numbers. The women have claimed that such acts have created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity in their workplaces.

‘Police Enter Bars After 9:30 PM, Misbehave With Women,’ Allegation

The bar dancers stated that police officials frequently visit dance bars late in the evening, especially after 9:30 PM, and behave in a manner they described as humiliating and threatening. They alleged that officers often question them aggressively and attempt to obtain personal contact information.

The women further claimed that the behaviour of certain police officials has left them feeling unsafe and mentally disturbed.

Fear of Photos Being Leaked

A major concern raised in the complaint is the fear that photographs taken by police personnel could be leaked, potentially damaging the women’s personal lives. The dancers said that many of them have families and children, and such incidents could lead to social humiliation and long-term harm.

Bar Owners Also Raise Concerns

Bar owners have reportedly supported the women’s claims, alleging that police visits and threats of raids or licence cancellation disrupt business and make customers uncomfortable. They stated that police interference affects the functioning of bars and creates panic among staff and visitors.

Dance Bars Reopened After Supreme Court Order

Dance bars in Mumbai were shut down in 2005 following controversies and public debates. However, after a long legal battle, the Supreme Court in 2016 allowed them to reopen. Later in 2019, the apex court laid down operational guidelines for such establishments.

At present, dance bars in Mumbai are permitted to operate till 11:30 PM.

Commission Yet to Respond

As of now, the Maharashtra State Women’s Commission has not issued an official statement regarding the complaint. The commission is headed by chairperson Rupali Chakankar.

Number of Dance Bars Declining

Mumbai once had nearly 700 dance bars before the 2005 ban, out of which around 307 were licensed. In recent years, many have either shut down or converted into orchestra bars. Dance bars are now mostly found in areas such as Dahisar, Andheri, Bandra, Juhu Tara Road and Worli, along with neighbouring regions like Mira-Bhayandar.

The incident comes at a time when the Maharashtra government is reportedly working on a new bill aimed at regulating dance bars in a more structured and “decent” manner.