Overview

• Justice Ravi V. Hosmani granted an interim stay on the Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) (Amendment) Rules, 2025 after petitions by the Multiplex Association of India, Hombale Films and a PVR INOX shareholder.
• The suspended rule set a uniform maximum of ₹200 per ticket across theatres and multiplexes, with an exemption for premium or boutique screens of 75 seats or fewer.
• Petitioners argued the cap is arbitrary, not traceable to the parent Act, and infringes the fundamental right to carry on business under Article 19(1)(g).
• The state defended the measure as a public-interest policy within its constitutional competence to regulate theatres under the State List.
• Counsel for petitioners cited a similar 2017 price cap that was stayed and later withdrawn, as the court now keeps the new rule on hold until further orders.