http://www.ucanindia.in/news/travel-agents-oppose-dress-code/18133/daily
Travel agents oppose dress code Sociologists and women's rights activists say only polluted minds get distracted by scantily dressed women. Mysore: St Philomena’s Church is mulling imposing a ban on indecent clothing in its premises but civil society group members and tourism stakeholders feel the move is uncalled for. Parish priest Fr K A William said “we will implement it only after discussing it with the concerned authorities.” He said “people indecently dressed tend to distract others, they should respect the sanctity of places of worship.” However, sociologist and women's rights activist Shanti say only polluted minds get distracted by a woman's dressing. Echoing similar sentiment, Jerald Wilson, a parishioner, said "there is no need to prescribe a dress code for foreigners, and it is wrong to state that they are spoiling the sanctity of the place of worship". Rati Rao, another activist, said "when one prays, he/she is in communion with God. Only noise can disturb his/ her serenity, and dress has nothing to do with it.” Tourist operators said foreigners update themselves about the regulations and other etiquette. Ashok, a tourist guide for 17 years, said almost all foreign tourists ask them whether there are any regulations on dressing. "I don't think there is any need for a dress code." S P Shanthinath, founder-president of Mysore Travel Agents' Association, adds: "when tourists embark on their tour for the day, they cannot dress for one particular place. They will be visiting many places. We can't insist that they dress in a particular way when they visit a place of worship." Vinay, who operates heritage walks for tourists, especially those from abroad, said: “imposing dress code could affect tourism.” Stakeholders in the tourism sector pointed out that there are no such dress codes imposed at any of the holy places in the Heritage City, including Sri Chammundeshwari Temple. Deputy director of tourism Shivalingappa, said he has no information about a dress code being put in place. A year ago, Goa's most-visited church Basillica de Bom Jesus had requested foreign visitors and locals to dress neatly. The bascilica’s rector Fr Savio Baretto had said that signboards were put up, requesting visitors to dress neatly as the church is near beaches. Staff were appointed to ensure this. He said “as the church is near beaches, visitors usually land up in their beach attire. Imposing a ban on scantily-clad tourists might offend them." ===========
