Consumer Court Directs Multiplexes to Ensure Availability of Free Drinking Water
Kochi: The Ernakulam District Consumer Disputes Redressal Court has ordered PVR Cinemas in Kochi to ensure the availability of free drinking water in multiplexes if food and beverages from outside are not permitted.
The order was issued in response to a complaint regarding the prohibition of outside food and beverages in the multiplex and the high prices charged for food items sold inside the theater.
In April 2022, the complainant, I. Sreekant, a resident of Kozhikode, booked tickets for the movie KGF Chapter-2 at PVR Cinemas in Lulu Mall, Kochi. The complainant purchased popcorn and a chicken burger from the theater counter. The complaint alleged that prohibiting outside food and compelling consumers to purchase food at inflated prices inside the theater constitutes an unethical trade practice.
The company argued that the prohibition of outside food was a standard and reasonable condition, communicated in advance and applicable to all moviegoers. They further stated that this restriction was related to ensuring the safety of patrons, maintaining hygiene in the cinema hall, and preventing the entry of prohibited items such as narcotics or flammable materials under the guise of food. The company also clarified that no one is forced to purchase food and that purified drinking water is provided free of charge.
The bench, chaired by D.B. Binu and with V. Ramachandran and T.N. Sreevidya as members, observed that the complainant failed to provide sufficient evidence or an affidavit despite being given adequate time. The court noted that, as per the Consumer Protection Act, the burden of proof lies with the consumer, and thus the complaint was dismissed.
The court also referenced a Supreme Court ruling stating that cinema theater owners have the right to prohibit outside food. Although the complaint was dismissed due to the lack of evidence from the complainant, PVR Cinemas provided a written assurance to the court that purified drinking water would be provided free of charge to all customers without obstruction.
The court directed PVR Cinemas to maintain this facility in a clean and hygienic manner and to install boards informing customers about the availability of free drinking water.
