Representational Image
Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court’s division bench has declined to vacate the interim stay imposed on the state government’s order fixing a uniform ticket price of ₹200 for all language films across theatres and multiplexes. The ruling came during a hearing on appeals filed by the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce, Kannada Film Producers’ Association, and others challenging the government’s Karnataka Cinema (Regulation) Amendment Rules, 2025.
The bench, comprising Justice Suraj Govindaraj and Justice K. Rajesh Rai, directed the Multiplex Association of India to maintain detailed monthly accounts of ticket sales, including payments made through digital modes (credit card, debit card, UPI, net banking) and cash (excluding GST). The accounts must be submitted to the licensing authority by the 15th of every month, the court said.
The judges further observed that if the multiplexes and exhibitors fail in their legal challenge, amounts collected electronically could be refunded to ticket buyers. However, cash transactions would be decided based on the final outcome. If the state government’s rules are upheld, the excess money collected in cash could be diverted for public welfare purposes, the court noted.
The court extended the earlier interim order, stating that “the interests of all stakeholders must be safeguarded until final adjudication.” The matter has been posted for further hearing on November 25.
The High Court also directed that the order be prominently displayed at all multiplexes—both in designated spaces and on-screen before film screenings—to ensure that moviegoers are aware of the ongoing case and interim directions.
Senior Advocate Lakshminarayan, appearing for the Film Chamber, argued that lower ticket prices would increase footfall, benefiting the industry and the public. Additional Advocate General Ismail Jabeerullah submitted that the government capped prices to ensure accessibility and public welfare.
Meanwhile, Senior Advocate Udaya Holla, representing the Multiplex Association of India, assured the court that multiplexes would comply with maintaining proper records. He also pointed out that a similar government order in the past was eventually withdrawn.
The court clarified that multiplexes failing to submit monthly accounts would not be covered by this interim relief.
Karnataka High Court, movie ticket price cap, ₹200 ticket rate, multiplex association, Karnataka cinema rules, film industry dispute, Bengaluru multiplex ticket price, PVR INOX, cinema regulation, ticket price controversy
About the Author
