Telangana High Court directs regulation of Children’s entry into theatres during late hours [Read Petition]

Telangana: The Telangana High Court has issued significant directions regarding the regulation of children’s entry into theaters and multiplexes during late hours, emphasizing the importance of protecting minors’ physical and mental health.

Telangana HC Bans Late-Night Movie Shows for Children Below 16

Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy addressed multiple writ petitions concerning movie ticket pricing and show timings, with a particular focus on the welfare of minor moviegoers.

The court heard four writ petitions filed by various petitioners, including Satish Kamaal, Gorla Bharat Raj, and Mallangi Sai Vijay Reddy. These petitions primarily challenged government orders permitting special shows and increased ticket prices for movies like Game Changer and Pushpa-2.

Court Orders Regulation of Minors’ Entry into Theaters After 11 PM

Mr. Vijay Gopal, counsel for the petitioners, highlighted that, as per License Condition 12(43) in Form B License under the A.P. Cinema (Regulations) Rules, 1970, no film exhibitions should be allowed before 8:40 AM. He expressed particular concern over minors attending late-night shows, citing potential adverse effects on their physical and mental well-being.

The court noted a recent incident during a benefit show of Pushpa-2 at Sandhya Theatre, where a stampede resulted in grievous injuries to a minor boy and the death of his mother, underscoring the urgency of regulatory measures.

In its directive, the court ordered that children below 16 years should not be permitted to watch late-night movie shows after 11 PM in theaters and multiplexes.

The court instructed the State government to consult all stakeholders and issue appropriate regulations on the entry of children below 16 years into theaters and multiplexes before 11 AM and after 11 PM. Until such a decision is made, theaters must not allow children below 16 years to watch movies after 11 PM.

The court also acknowledged that, in accordance with its earlier order dated 10.01.2025, the Telangana government had already reviewed its decision and opted to discontinue benefit shows, considering public interest, health, and safety concerns.

The matter is scheduled for further hearing on 21.02.2025.

Mr. Md. Sultana Basha, Mr. Vijay Gopal, Mr. Mahesh Mamidala, and Mr. P. Srinivas Reddy appeared for the petitioners, while Mr. Mahesh Raje served as the learned Government Pleader for Home.

Case Title: Satish Kamaal v. The State of Telangana & Ors.

[Read Petition]