Dramatic Performances Act, 1876

3. Power to prohibit certain dramatic performances

Whenever the State Government is of opinion that any play, pantomime or other drama performed or about to be performed in a public place is-

(a) of a scandalous or defamatory nature, or

(b) likely to excite feelings of disaffection to the Government established by law in 4[ India ], or

(c) likely to deprave and corrupt persons present at the performance, the State Government or outside the Presidency-towns 5[***] the State Government or such Magistrate as it may empower in this behalf, may by order prohibit the performance.

Explanation.- Any building or enclosure to which the public are admitted to witness a performance on payment of money shall be deemed a "public place" within the meaning of this section.