HYDERABAD: In an order that may prevent children from watching second shows, Justice B Vijaysen Reddy of the Telangana high court on Monday directed the state and cinemas not to permit children below 16 years to be in theatres before 11 am and after 11 pm.
As most second shows end past midnight, the order will effectively prohibit those below 16 from watching the late-night shows.
The judge 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 judge, however, made it clear that the order would be applicable to all movies henceforth.
Since the state has already complied with the previous order of the court and decided not to permit benefit shows and odd-hour shows (between 1am and 8am) in the aftermath of the stampede at Sandhya Theatre at RTC Crossroads in Dec 2024, the judge, in the latest hearing, focused on the issue of minors watching movies during late hours, which would have an adverse impact on their physical and mental health.
Agreeing with B Vijay Gopal, the counsel for one of the petitioners, the judge said: “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 1.30am. Children should not be permitted to watch movies during early hours and also during late nights.”
In the opinion of the court, children below 16 years should not be permitted to watch late night shows after 11pm in theatres and multiplexes, Justice Vijaysen Reddy said, directing 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 before 11am and after 11pm. Till such a decision is taken, theatres should not allow children below 16 years to watch movies after 11pm, the judge said.