Authorities uncovered illegal dance bar activities at No Limit River Bar in the Capital police station area, sparking concerns over violations of Odisha’s excise policy.
Excise officials raided the premises after receiving local intelligence. They found that the bar was hosting unauthorised dance performances late into the night, with patrons throwing cash on stage and consuming alcohol beyond permitted hours. CCTV footage and other evidence are now under investigation.
Officials confirmed that the bar had no license for dance performances. Reports indicated multiple entry points and secret exits, raising suspicions that staff and patrons attempted to flee during the raid. Some employees reportedly absconded after the incident.
The Excise Superintendent stated that strict action will follow if violations are confirmed. Only eight bars in Bhubaneswar currently hold permission for dance performances, and even those must follow strict guidelines. Throwing or offering money to performers remains strictly prohibited.
The crackdown comes after similar incidents in December at another No Limit bar in Satyabihar, where a fire exposed illegal dance operations. On Valentine’s Day, officials also faced threats during a raid at ODI-02 Bar in Kharavel Nagar, where over 100 people were partying past midnight.
Authorities have pledged tougher enforcement, promising more raids in coordination with local police. They emphasised that bars must close by midnight and dance performances remain banned under the new excise policy. The department is determined to curb illegal nightlife activities and maintain law and order in the capital.
