Jaya introduces Bill in TN Assembly. It also has a provision for fine for denial of entry to people clad in ethnic clothes
Private establishments like clubs, hotels, theatres and malls in Tamil Nadu which deny entry to people clad in dhoti or traditional Indian dress would now have to pay a heavy price ranging from one year imprisonment and a fine of Rs 25,000. Those violating the provisions also stand to lose their recognition and licence.
The south Indian dhoti as well as the north Indian pyjama will hereafter be equal in status to western outfits and cannot be discriminated against anywhere in the State. Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa introduced a Bill in the legislative Assembly on Wednesday making it mandatory for all recreation clubs, hotels, theatres, malls and stadiums to admit men wearing dhoti or any Indian traditional dress.
The move comes following the controversy arising out of the denial of entry by TNCA Club in Chennai to a sitting judge of the Madras High Court and two senior lawyers who came for a private function in their customary dhoti early July.
“It was brought to the notice of the Government that some clubs are denying entry to persons wearing dhoti or any Indian traditional dress into public areas under their control of management on the ground that they are not wearing dress or apparels in keeping with the western culture. It has become imperative in the context of happening in the past to remove such restrictions,” Jayalalithaa said while introducing the Bill.
In the fight for supremacy between the Dravidian parties, it is advantage Jayalalithaa now, according to K Srinivasan, chairman, Prime Point Foundation, a public relations company.
“It is Jayalalithaa who got dhoti its due recognition. Nobody should discriminate against dhoti-clad men. It is as dignified as the western clothing. Dhoti is our national dress though the style of wearing may vary from State to State,” said Srinivasan.