Cinema ticket price cap in Kerala? PIL in HC pushes govt to form expert panel

Kochi: The Kerala government on Monday informed the High Court that it has formed a committee to examine and regulate cinema ticket prices in theatres and multiplexes across the state.

The submission was made before a division bench of Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar and Justice Basant Balaji during the hearing of a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking a cap on ticket prices. In an affidavit, the state said the issue required “a detailed study and discussion” before any policy decision could be finalised, and that multiple rounds of consultations would be needed to ensure a fair and comprehensive approach.

The newly constituted committee will look into all aspects of ticket pricing and prepare recommendations aimed at balancing the interests of theatre owners and the public. Counsel for the Multiplex Association of India requested that the panel engage all stakeholders — including theatre operators, industry representatives, and consumer groups — before finalising its report.

The court has directed the state to file a memo along with the official Government Order constituting the committee by Thursday, the next date of hearing.

The PIL argues that the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution includes the right to live with dignity, encompassing access to leisure and cultural activities. It contends that exorbitant cinema ticket prices limit public access to films — a key cultural and recreational activity — and violate citizens’ constitutional rights. The plea seeks a maximum ticket price and a transparent, rational framework for regulating charges.

The court will review the government’s submissions on August 14, when it may issue further directions on the committee’s scope, timeline, and stakeholder engagement.

The move by the Pinarayi Vijayan-led Left government follows this month’s two-day Film Conclave, where State Films Minister Saji Cherian reiterated the government’s commitment to the overall growth of the Malayalam film industry.

With inputs from IANS