Film producers, multiplex association challenge Karnataka movie ticket price cap in court

The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday heard multiple petitions filed by film producers and the Multiplex Association of India challenging the state government’s recent move to limit movie ticket prices at ₹200. The regulation, introduced last Friday through an amendment to the Karnataka Cinema (Control) Rules, 2014, fixes Karnataka movie ticket price at ₹200 across theatres, except for premium screens with fewer than 75 seats. The cap is effective from the date of its notification in the official gazette.

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A single-judge bench of Justice Ravi V. Hosamani took up the matter. Petitioners argued that the state’s decision to fix a uniform ceiling was arbitrary and overlooked the operational and investment costs borne by filmmakers and multiplex operators. They contended that the rule was inserted under provisions relating to ticket booth management, which have no bearing on pricing.

Pricing should be left to commercial discretion

Senior counsels representing production houses and multiplex chains highlighted that the move disregarded market dynamics, audience choice, and the differentiated experiences offered by high-end cinemas. They maintained that pricing should be left to commercial discretion, similar to other service sectors regulated under state laws.

On behalf of the government, the Additional Advocate-General defended the regulation as a measure intended to safeguard public interest and ensure affordable access to cinema for wider audiences.

After considering the submissions from all parties, the High Court reserved its interim order, leaving stakeholders in the state’s film and exhibition industry awaiting clarity on the future of ticket pricing.