The Punjab government has announced new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for stage and theatre performances across the province, introducing stricter regulations to curb obscenity and ensure discipline in the industry.
According to the official notification, the Information and Culture Department will now be responsible for issuing licences for stage dramas, replacing the previous system.
Any theatrical activity held without prior approval or licence will be immediately shut down.
The revised guidelines make it mandatory for theatre groups to submit their scripts at least three days in advance to the Punjab Arts Council.
Additionally, Deputy Commissioners and the Punjab Council of the Arts (PUCAR) will jointly oversee stage plays.
A censor rehearsal panel has been tasked with attending full-dress rehearsals before a play’s release, preparing detailed reports on its content and presentation.
The new SOPs strictly ban vulgar, immoral, or obscene content in theatre performances.