Siddu proposes HC opposes: Rs 200 ticket cap only for weekdays

The High Court was informed that ticket prices are dependent on the day and the time.  A representative for multiplexes argued that the theatres will suffer losses and might shut down. The High Court directed the government to file its objection to the multiplexes' petition. 

The Karnataka High Court stated that the cap on movie tickets is not applicable on weekends and on public holidays. The court further asked the government to file its objection to the petition filed by the FICCI Multiplex Association of India and Inox Leisure Ltd.

The case was presented before the vacation bench judge of Justice PS Dinesh Kumar. An advocate representing the multiplexes said the theatres would suffer as a result of the proposed cap on tickets.

Also Read: Multiplex Association condemns Rs 200 limit on tickets, wants K’taka govt to revoke the order

He argued that the multiplexes, which have spent money on infrastructure, would be in loss and might shut down as a result of the cap. The court was told that tickets in multiplexes vary and are dependent on the time and the day. The court was also informed that ticket prices are different in Bengaluru, Belgavi and Bagalkot.  

In response, the High Court allowed multiplexes to charge a higher price on weekends and on public holidays until the state government files its objection, according to Bangalore Mirror.

The multiplex association earlier urged the state government to withdraw the cap on movie tickets, arguing that it would affect business. However, the government introduced a limit of Rs 200 on the price of tickets. This cap is applicable to all theatres in Karnataka. In its order, the government left out gold class category in multiplexes and luxury seating rows in single screen theatres. Since the government passed the order, multiplexes charge Rs 265 for non-Kannada movies whereas Kannada films are priced at Rs 200, due to tax exemptions.