The Telangana High Court on Monday, January 27 directed the state government and cinemas not to permit children below 16 years of age in theatres before 11 am and after 11 pm, preventing them from watching early morning and late night shows.
Justice B Vijaysen Reddy pronounced this order while resuming hearing on four petitions, two each against "Pushpa 2" and "Game Changer", that questioned the odd-hour shows, benefit shows and enhancement of ticket prices. The petition was heard after the stampede which claimed a 35-year-old woman’s life and left an 8 year old injured with brain damage.
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In compliance with a previous order of the High Court, the state government decided to not permit benefit shows and odd-hour shows between 1 am and 8 am following the stampede at Sandhya theatre during the premier show of Pushpa 2: The Rule which claimed the life of a 35-year-old woman.
"As per Licence Condition 12(43) in Form B Licence for Cinematograph Exhibition under the AP Cinema (Regulations) Rules, 1970, the licensee (theatre management) shall not allow any performance or exhibit any film by means of a cinematograph before 8:40 am or after 1:30 am. Children should not be permitted to watch movies during early hours and also during late nights," the judge observed.
Justice Vijaysen directed the Home Department's Principal Secretary to consult all stakeholders and take necessary action in this regard and to issue instructions to all concerned for regulating entry of children below 16 years in theatres/multiplexes.