Ticket Price Hike: Telangana HC Rejects Increase, Initiates Contempt Action Against CV Anand

In a strong and far-reaching verdict, the Telangana High Court has dismissed the state government’s decision to hike cinema ticket prices for Mana Sankaravara Prasad Garu, the upcoming film starring megastar Chiranjeevi. The court came down heavily on authorities for repeating earlier mistakes despite clear judicial warnings, calling the move unfair to the common public.

High Court Slams Repeated Ticket Price Hikes

A bench headed by Justice N. V. Anand took serious note of the government issuing special permissions to raise ticket prices, even after earlier objections during films such as Akhanda 2 and Raja Saab.

The court observed that:

• Authorities ignored earlier High Court directions
• Special memos were issued despite explicit warnings
• The same errors were repeated knowingly

Suo Motu Contempt Proceedings Initiated

In a significant move, the High Court suo motu initiated contempt proceedings. Notices were issued to:

• The Principal Secretary (Home)
• C. V. Anand
• Other concerned officials

The court found them prima facie guilty of violating previous court orders related to cinema ticket pricing.

‘Double Standards’ of Government Questioned

The bench strongly criticised what it termed the government’s double standards:

• Ministers publicly claimed ticket prices would not be increased
• Special permissions were allegedly issued late at night, during court holidays

The court remarked that such actions were undermining transparency and eroding public trust.

Cinema Becoming a Luxury for Common People

The High Court observed that frequent ticket price hikes are:

• Making cinema inaccessible to ordinary citizens
• Turning films into a luxury commodity, rather than public entertainment

The petition challenged the government’s permission to raise ticket prices from ₹50 to ₹100, especially in multiplexes, soon after the film’s release on January 12.

Strict Guidelines Issued for Future

To prevent further confusion and last-minute decisions, the High Court laid down clear rules:

• Any proposal to increase ticket prices must be taken at least 90 days before release
• No last-minute or midnight memos will be allowed
• Authorities must ensure transparency and due process

The court directed officials to end the culture of hurried approvals, especially on the eve of film releases.

Why This Verdict Matters

The ruling is being seen as a landmark decision in regulating cinema ticket pricing in Telangana. It reinforces that:

• Court orders cannot be bypassed
• Public interest must come before commercial gains
• Government decisions must remain transparent and lawful

The verdict is expected to have a statewide impact on future film releases and ticket pricing policies.

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