Karnataka HC extends stay on ₹200 movie ticket price cap
What's the story
The Karnataka High Court has extended its stay on the proposed ₹200 cap for multiplex movie tickets across the state. The stay was initially issued on September 23 and has now been extended with additional directions. The Multiplex Association of India had filed a petition against this price cap, arguing it would adversely affect their business operations.
New instructions
Multiplexes must maintain detailed records of every ticket sold
The court has now directed multiplexes to keep detailed records of all tickets sold. This must include the date and time of sale, booking method (online or at counters), payment mode (credit/debit card, UPI, net banking, or cash), amount collected, and GST component. All cash transactions must be digitally traceable, with cash registers being countersigned daily by the multiplex manager.
Refund process
Refunds will be required if petitioners win final judgment
If the petitioners win the final judgment, all amounts collected electronically (excluding GST) during this writ petition's pendency will have to be refunded to individual customers. The refund should be made through the same mode of payment used for booking. The multiplexes have been given 45 days to submit a refund plan to the licensing authority for approval.
Ticket retention
Public advised to retain tickets for current screenings
The court has also advised the public to retain their tickets, whether physical or electronic, at the specified rate for current screenings. These guidelines aim to protect the interests of applicants, the state, and moviegoers by ensuring that any excess charges collected from customers are refunded properly.
Film performance
'Kantara Chapter 1' continues to perform well at box office
The extension of the stay order comes as Rishab Shetty's Kantara Chapter 1 continues to perform well in Karnataka and other states. The movie recorded 82% occupancy for its Kannada shows on Friday, with night shows in Bengaluru and Hubli witnessing full attendance. It has earned over ₹100 crore so far.