The Supreme Court verdict that heralds the re-opening of Mumbai’s dance bars must be seized as an opportunity for the city. We have long been talking about Mumbai being a world-class destination but in reality, international visitors often face obstacles, which mar the good time that the city has to offer them.

For Mumbaikars, dance bars connote a seedy side of the city, complete with thug connections, but the verdict should be taken as a signal for a sea change in this scenario. With licensing, proper parameters for their functioning, and regulated working hours, there is no reason why dance bars cannot form part of Mumbai’s mainstream nightlife.