Wed Sep 24 03:10:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Ernakulam, dismissed a complaint against PVR Cinemas, Lulu Mall, regarding the prohibition of outside food and beverages. The complainant alleged this policy forced consumers to purchase overpriced refreshments. PVR argued they provided free, RO-filtered water and that purchasing refreshments wasn’t mandatory. The Commission found no evidence of deficiency in service or unfair trade practice, citing a Supreme Court judgment that supported the cinema’s right to restrict outside food for safety, hygiene, and operational reasons. The complainant failed to provide sufficient evidence to support his claims.
**News Article:**
**Ernakulam Consumer Commission Upholds PVR Cinemas’ Right to Restrict Outside Food, Orders Uninterrupted Water Supply**
**Ernakulam, Kerala –** The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Ernakulam has ruled in favor of PVR Cinemas, located in Lulu Mall, dismissing a complaint alleging unfair trade practices due to the cinema’s policy of prohibiting outside food and beverages. However, the Commission has ordered PVR Cinemas to ensure an uninterrupted supply of drinking water to all customers during business hours.
The ruling, delivered by a bench comprising D.B. Binu (President), V. Ramachandran, and Sreevidhia T.N., addressed a complaint filed by a consumer who argued that the policy forces patrons to purchase overpriced refreshments within the theatre.
PVR Cinemas defended its policy, stating that it provides free, RO-filtered drinking water and that the purchase of refreshments is optional. They further argued that the restriction on outside food is a standard practice grounded in safety, security, hygiene, and operational concerns, similar to rules implemented at amusement parks and stadiums.
The Commission ultimately found no evidence of deficiency in service or unfair trade practice. It relied on a Supreme Court judgment that affirmed the right of cinema halls to prohibit outside food and beverages. The Commission also noted the complainant failed to provide sufficient evidence to support their claims beyond the ticket, GST invoice and policy statement.
While dismissing the complaint regarding the food policy, the Commission underscored the importance of providing adequate and accessible drinking water to all patrons, directing PVR Cinemas to maintain an uninterrupted supply throughout its operating hours.
The case, titled “Sreekanth Indukkaparakkal v. Manager/ Person in charge, PVR Cinemas-Lulu Mall,” highlights the ongoing debate surrounding cinema refreshment policies and the rights of consumers.
First Piper 