The Karnataka government’s recent decision to regulate cinema ticket prices has been temporarily halted by the Karnataka High Court. The state had earlier issued an order fixing ticket prices to make movie-going more affordable. According to the order, single-screen theatres could charge between ₹120 and ₹200, while multiplexes, including premium formats like IMAX, 4DX, and Ice screens, were allowed to charge up to ₹236. Multiplexes with fewer than 75 seats could charge slightly higher rates.
However, the move triggered strong opposition from theatre owners and film producers, who argued that the new rule did not consider the rising operational costs. They also pointed out that the order failed to clearly define what qualifies as “premium” small theatres, leaving ambiguity in its implementation.
Petitions were filed in the High Court by the Multiplex Association of India, film producers, and shareholders of PVR and Inox, challenging the government’s decision. Justice Ravi V. Hosmani, hearing the case, granted a stay on the order, allowing theatres across Karnataka to continue charging their existing ticket rates until further notice.
The petitioners contended that a uniform price cap for all theatres was impractical, as ticket pricing should depend on factors such as the type of theatre, facilities provided, and customer preferences. For now, the High Court’s order ensures that Karnataka theatres retain the freedom to set ticket prices as before, until the matter is reviewed in detail in future hearings.
