The Karnataka High Court has extended the stay on the Rs 200 cap on multiplex ticket prices, directing strict record-keeping of all sales. It also ordered that refunds must be issued to consumers if the petitioners win the case.
Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court has once again extended its stay on the state government’s order that fixed cinema ticket prices at a maximum of Rs 200 in multiplexes across the state.
The stay was first granted on September 23 after the Karnataka State Film Chamber of Commerce filed a writ appeal against the Multiplex Association of India.
On September 30, the Principal Bench not only upheld the earlier stay but also issued detailed directions regarding ticket sales, records, and refunds.
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According to the official statement released by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), the High Court stressed that multiplexes must follow strict procedures while selling tickets and keeping accounts.
In its order, the court said:
“All multiplexes under Respondent No. 1 are directed to maintain comprehensive and auditable records for every ticket sold. These records must include: date and time of sale, mode of booking (online or physical counter), mode of payment (credit/debit card, UPI, net banking, or cash), amount collected including GST, digitally traceable receipts for all cash transactions, and daily cash register countersigned by the manager-in-charge.”
The court also addressed the issue of refunds in case the petitioners succeed in the final hearing.
It said:
“If the petitioners succeed in the final adjudication, all amounts collected electronically (excluding GST) must be refunded to consumers through the same mode of payment. A refund processing plan must be submitted to the Licensing Authority within 45 days for approval and subsequent vetting by the High Court.”
The judges further underlined the importance of compliance from both cinema operators and consumers.
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They observed:
“Consumers are entitled to the ticket price paid, while multiplexes must maintain complete records of all sales to facilitate refunds if necessary.”
By putting these measures in place, the High Court explained that it is trying to protect the interests of moviegoers while at the same time balancing the concerns of the film industry and multiplex owners.
As the case continues, both sides will have to prepare detailed records to ensure accountability and transparency in the sale of cinema tickets.
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