The Bill is unlikely to see many hurdles on its way to becoming law. Opposition parties like the DMK shared the chief minister's fury at the dhoti incident. (File photo)
And it's here. The Dhoti Bill has been introduced in the Tamil Nadu Assembly today by Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, who had promised legislation against "sartorial despotism" after a judge was refused entry at a Chennai club because he was wearing a
dhoti. (
'Dhoti' Issue - BJP, Congress Welcome Tamil Nadu Government's Decision to Bring New Law)
The Bill proposes a year in jail and a Rs 25,000 fine for anyone who bars
dhoti-clad people from entering clubs or other premises. It is unlikely to see many hurdles on its way to becoming law. Opposition parties like the DMK shared the chief minister's fury at the
dhoti incident. (
Also read: Indian Club's Ban on Dhotis in Favor of Western Attire Draws Protests)
Last month, the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) Club in Chennai refused entry to dhoti-clad Madras High Court judge Justice Hariparanthaman. (
Read: Judge in Dhoti Denied Entry at Chennai Club; Karunanidhi Livid)
"After over 60 years of Independence, I can't accept this. They can have rules for their members, not for visitors who come on invitation," the upset Judge said. Political parties of all hue picked up cudgels on his behalf and attacked the club for the "disrespect" shown to what they said was an intrinsic part of Tamil culture. (
Also read: Dhotis Banned to Prevent 'Wardrobe Malfunction,' Says Chennai Club Under Fire)
The club had to promise to review its rules that allow only people dressed in full trousers, shirts or T-shirts with collars and leather shoes to access its premises, though officials did tentatively explain that it helped prevent "wardrobe malfunction under the influence of alcohol." (
Furious at Dhoti Ban in Clubs, Jayalalithaa Threatens to Cancel Licences)
Powerful cricket administrator N Srinivasan, the president of the club, said he was ready to lift the ban. "We will go by whatever the Chief Minister advises. There have been rules forever. When something like this happens and if the chief minister has a view we would respect it," he said. (
Ready to Lift Dhoti Ban at Tamil Nadu Cricket Association Club: N Srinivasan)