Telangana High Court Limits Theater Entry for Children

The Telangana High Court gave important orders regarding cinema theaters. Children under 16 years of age cannot enter theaters during certain hours. These hours are before 11 a.m. and after 11 p.m. The court asked the government to consult all stakeholders. It ordered theaters to follow these rules until a final decision is made.

The court reviewed four petitions related to movie ticket prices and additional shows. Justice B. Vijayasen Reddy examined these petitions. The petitioners argued against the approval of benefit shows. They stated that the court had previously allowed such shows. However, the court issued new orders on January 11. It decided that benefit shows should not be permitted anymore. The court emphasized the need to consider public safety and health.

According to cinematography rules, minors should not attend late-night shows. These times are before 8:40 a.m. and after 1:30 a.m. Allowing minors at these times can harm their physical and mental health. The court noted that multiplexes often run shows until late at night. It said there are no proper restrictions for minors in such cases.

The court referred to a recent incident during the screening of "Pushpa-2." A stampede occurred, causing the death of a woman. A young boy was seriously injured. The court asked the government to take proper action to prevent such tragedies.

The court agreed that allowing children into theaters after 11 p.m. is not appropriate. It instructed the government to discuss this matter with all concerned parties. Until a final decision is made, theaters must not allow children under 16 during restricted hours.

The High Court issued notices to various officials. These include the Home Department and the Telangana Film and Television Development Corporation. The hearing for this matter has been postponed to February 22.