CINEMA HALLS MUST PROVIDE FREE DRINKING WATER TO CINEMA-GOERS - MADRAS HC

Justice SM Subramaniam of the Madras High Court observed that cinema halls must provide free drinking water to cinema-goers if they are prohibited from carrying water bottles into the theatres. Fully functional water purifiers need to be installed, and enough disposable glasses need to be made available near the cooler for the cinema-goers. The owner of the cinema hall would be liable if the above is not followed. Drinking water has to be available throughout the screening of the movie. If, for any reason, water is not available alternative arrangements for the supply of free and potable drinking must be made available by the owners.

The court was hearing a 2016 petition moved by G Devarajan, who protested after being charged higher than the Maximum Retail Price in the outside market for water at a food stall in S2 cinemas. 

Justice SM Subramaniam observed that Cinema-goers are forced to purchase packed food and water bottles at extreme prices. There are many similar complaints in the public domain, and to date, any action taken appears insufficient.

In accordance with the grievances made by the petitioner, the Court issued the following:

• The Court directed the petitioner to submit his complaint to the Department of Legal Metrology within two weeks. The authority was directed to pass the order within 3 months.

• The court further directed inspection of purified water facilities that are adequately provided in theatres within two months from the date of receiving a copy of the order.

• The authorities are also to ensure hygiene restrooms. 

Author: Papiha Ghoshal