No Outside Snacks, But Free Water Flows: PVR Wins Consumer Case

Introduction

The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Ernakulam, has recently delivered a notable decision in Sreekanth Indukkaparakkal v. PVR Cinemas & Ors.¹, addressing a consumer's grievance against PVR Cinemas over restrictions on carrying outside food and beverages into multiplex premises. The complaint alleged that the prohibition on external consumables amounted to an unfair trade practice, compelling patrons to purchase overpriced in-house food. However, the Commission dismissed the complaint, holding that cinema theatres have the legal right to regulate entry conditions, including restricting outside food, provided they ensure free access to drinking water and make reasonable accommodations for special needs.