The M.P. Dramatic Performances Act, 1961
The Dramatic Performance Act, 1961
The Madhya Pradesh Dramatic Performances Act, 1961 regulates public dramatic performances, including plays and pantomimes, within the state of Madhya Pradesh. It applies to theater organizers, performers, playwrights, venue owners, and local authorities. The law empowers the state government and local officials to prohibit public performances deemed objectionable, such as those inciting violence, undermining state security, provoking religious hatred, or causing public disorder. Authorities can demand scripts or details beforehand, and violators face fines or imprisonment. This legislation matters because it balances public order, state security, and decency against freedom of artistic expression in public spaces across Madhya Pradesh.
- 0. Preamble
- 1. Short title and extent
- 2. Definitions. - In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires,-
- 3. Power to prohibit objectionable dramatic performances
- 4. Power to prohibit objectionable dramatic performances temporarily. - (1) The
- 5. Service of order of prohibition
- 6. Penalty for disobedience of order made under Section 3 or Section 4. - (1)
- 7. Power to call for information.
- 8. Power to call for copy of purport of drama, etc.
- 9. Appeal to High Court
- 10. Protection for acts done in good faith
- 11. Powers to make rules
- 12. Assembly.
PDF: pending for this language.