The Telangana High Court expressed strong displeasure over repeated movie ticket price hikes. The court questioned the frequent increases for the latest Raja Saab, starring Prabhas. In a major shock to Raja Saab producers, the Telangana High Court struck down the state government’s memo regarding price hike.
The court asked why ticket prices were being raised so often. It also criticised the Telangana government for not adhering to earlier directions on the issue.
During the hearing, the court reminded that ministers had earlier stated ticket prices would not be increased for big-budget films. It questioned why memos were still being issued for price hikes and expressed anger over what it termed smart handling through official orders.
The Telangana government approved the ticket price hike for Raja Saab late on Thursday night. It allowed an increase of Rs 105 in single screens and Rs 132 in multiplexes until January 11.
From January 11 to January 18, the government permitted a reduced hike. Ticket prices could go up by Rs 62 in single theatres and Rs 89 in multiplexes during this period.
The government stated that 20 percent of the profits must be given to the Film Federation. The court noted that similar warnings were issued earlier as well.
It observed that the government had been cautioned before the releases of OG, Akhanda 2, and Pushpa 2. Despite these warnings, orders approving ticket hikes were still issued, the court remarked.
