Karnataka High Court Halts Movie Ticket Price Cap

The Karnataka High Court issued an interim stay on the Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) (Amendment) Rules, 2025, which had imposed a Rs 200 cap on movie tickets. This came after the Multiplex Association of India challenged the rule, arguing it lacked legislative backing and infringed on business rights.

The Karnataka High Court has temporarily halted the enforcement of a new rule capping movie ticket prices at Rs 200 across the state. This decision was made after a petition filed by the Multiplex Association of India challenged the amendment introduced by the Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) (Amendment) Rules, 2025.

In the court hearing, Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing the petitioners, argued that the government's move lacks a rational basis and oversteps its legislative authority. Rohatgi stated that the law does not empower the state to set ticket prices, likening the cap to mandating economies in airline seating.

Additional Advocate General Ismail Zabiulla defended the rule, citing public interest and constitutional authority. However, the High Court granted the stay, citing lack of legislative authority and potential infringement on business rights, until further notice.