The Telangana High Court on Wednesday issued an interim order suspending the state government’s decision to hike ticket prices for special shows of Telugu actor and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan’s much-awaited film OG.
A bench, while hearing a writ petition challenging the government’s notification, also directed the Hyderabad Police Commissioner to ensure that no one below 18 years of age is allowed into theatres screening the movie, since it has been certified ‘A’ by the censor board.
The state Home Department, through an order dated September 19, had permitted enhanced ticket pricing for OG, including a special 9 pm show on Wednesday with a rate fixed at ₹800 (inclusive of GST). The order also allowed other increased ticket prices until October 4.
The petitioner argued that the order was arbitrary and illegal, urging the court to set it aside. It was further contended that such directions violated the constitutional scheme under Article 246, which delineates the powers of Parliament and state legislatures to make laws.
The plea also sought a prohibition on the issuance of such orders in the future, asserting that they run contrary to Article 14 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality before law.
Taking note of the submissions, the High Court suspended the government’s order until further hearing, effectively restoring standard ticket prices for the film.
The matter will be heard in detail after the state government files its response.
