The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday stayed the State government’s recent decision to cap movie ticket prices at ₹200, following petitions from multiplex owners and film producers challenging the move. Justice Ravi V. Hosmani passed the interim order on the petitions, which contended that the Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) (Amendment) Rules, 2025, imposing a uniform ticket price ceiling, were arbitrary and unfair.
The petitions were filed jointly by Hombale Films, the Multiplex Association of India (MAI), and a shareholder of PVR INOX. Petitioners argued that applying a flat cap to both single-screen theatres and multiplexes ignored the significantly higher costs, technology investments, and premium facilities associated with multiplex operations. They also highlighted that OTT platforms, satellite TV, and other entertainment media remain unregulated, creating an uneven playing field.
Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing the Multiplex Association, submitted that ticket pricing is akin to a private contract between exhibitors and customers, and the government has no authority to impose a blanket limit. He emphasized that multiplexes have invested heavily in luxury experiences, and a uniform cap threatens business viability. Senior Counsel D.R. Ravishankar echoed that any price regulation must have a clear legislative mandate; otherwise, it infringes constitutional business rights under Article 19(1) (g).
The State defended the cap as being in public interest under powers granted by the Karnataka Cinema Act. However, the High Court’s interim stay reflects judicial scrutiny over potential overreach. The court also noted interventions by the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce and directed them to substantiate their role. The matter Is now pending further hearings, leaving cinema ticket pricing temporarily unrestricted across the State.
