Patna: A consumer commission in Patna has ordered Cinepolis and Coca-Cola to pay rs 85,000 after a moviegoer complained that he was stopped from carrying his own water bottle into a cinema hall and had to buy one at a higher price.
The complaint was filed by Rajat Tiwari over an incident on September 23, 2016. He had visited a Cinepolis theatre in Patna to watch the film Pink when security personnel allegedly refused to let him take his water bottle inside. He then purchased a Kinley water bottle for rs 50, although its market price was rs 20, according to the complaint.
Tiwari approached the consumer commission, alleging unfair trade practices and seeking compensation for the inconvenience and legal expenses.
During the proceedings, Cinepolis argued that it did not decide the water bottle’s price, while Coca-Cola maintained that its pricing complied with the applicable rules.
The commission rejected their arguments and held both companies responsible for the practices in question.
Under the order, rs 25,000 will be paid to Tiwari for mental distress, while rs 10,000 will cover his legal expenses. The remaining rs 50,000 will go to the State Consumer Welfare Fund, bringing the total penalty to rs 85,000.
The companies were directed to comply within 45 days, with interest applicable in case of delay, according to the reported order.
The case has once again drawn attention to the issue of outside food and water restrictions at cinema halls and the prices customers are asked to pay inside.
For moviegoers, the ruling serves as a reminder that they can raise complaints with consumer authorities when they believe pricing practices or restrictions are unfair.
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