Wed Sep 24 03:10:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the provided text, followed by its rewrite as a news article, formatted for “The Hindu” newspaper:

**Summary:**

The Ernakulam District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has dismissed a complaint against PVR Cinemas regarding the prohibition of outside food and beverages. The complaint, filed in 2022, alleged that the multiplex forced customers to purchase overpriced food and drinks within the cinema. While dismissing the core complaint, the Commission directed PVR Cinemas to prominently display notices informing customers about the availability of free, RO-filtered drinking water on the premises, ensuring its cleanliness and hygiene.

**News Article:**

**The Hindu**

**Cinema Chain Cleared of Food Ban Complaint, Must Provide Notice of Free Water**

*KOCHI, September 22, 2025* – The Ernakulam District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has ruled in favor of PVR Cinemas in a case concerning the prohibition of outside food and beverages at its LuLu Mall multiplex. The decision, delivered today, dismisses a complaint initially filed in September 2022 by Sreekanth Indukkaparakkal, who argued that the cinema chain was forcing customers to purchase overpriced refreshments from its in-house outlets by banning outside consumables.

Mr. Indukkaparakkal’s complaint stemmed from an April 2022 visit where he purchased a popcorn and burger for ₹450. He argued that the ban left consumers with no choice and that in-house prices were excessive.

PVR Cinemas countered by stating that it lawfully operated, providing free RO-filtered drinking water to patrons. The company argued that customers were not obligated to purchase food or beverages and could choose to visit other cinemas if they were dissatisfied. PVR also asserted that the ban on outside food and drink was a standard practice in entertainment venues, driven by safety, security, hygiene, and operational concerns. The company cited potential risks associated with contraband, alcohol, and inflammable items.

The Commission, headed by President D.B. Binu and members V. Ramachandran and T.N. Sreevidya, found no substantial evidence to support the claim that PVR’s services fell short of statutory or contractual standards.

While dismissing the primary complaint regarding the food ban, the Commission has instructed PVR Cinemas to take affirmative steps regarding access to drinking water. The order mandates that the cinema chain:

* Ensure the uninterrupted availability of RO-filtered drinking water to all customers during business hours.
* Maintain the water facility in a clean and hygienic condition.
* Display prominent notice boards at appropriate locations within the multiplex, clearly informing customers about the availability of free RO-filtered drinking water.

This ruling balances consumer rights with the operational concerns of entertainment businesses, setting a precedent for similar cases in the future.

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