The Karnataka High Court has prolonged its stay on the state's order that caps cinema ticket prices at ₹200, impacting multiplexes throughout Karnataka. The court also issued detailed instructions regarding ticket sales and refunds, aiming to protect consumer interests while addressing the concerns of both the state and cinema operators.

In its order dated September 30, 2025, the High Court directed the Multiplex Association of India (MAI) and its members to maintain meticulous records of all ticket sales. These records must include the date and time of the sale, the booking mode (online or physical counter), the payment method (credit/debit card, UPI, net banking, or cash), the amount collected (including GST), digitally traceable receipts for all cash transactions, and daily cash register entries countersigned by the manager in charge.

The court specified that if the petitioners ultimately succeed in their challenge, all amounts collected electronically (excluding GST) must be refunded to consumers via the original payment method. A refund processing plan must be submitted to the Licensing Authority for approval within 45 days, followed by vetting by the High Court.

The High Court emphasized that consumers are entitled to a refund of the ticket price they paid, and multiplexes are obligated to maintain complete sales records to facilitate refunds if necessary. To ensure transparency, the court has also directed multiplexes to prominently display the interim order in their auditoriums and on screens before the start of films.

The Karnataka State Film Chamber of Commerce had filed an appeal, arguing that laws are presumed valid and should not be stayed at an interim stage. However, the court noted the single judge had raised concerns about the legal basis for regulating cinema ticket prices through amendments.

The matter is scheduled for a final hearing on November 25, 2025. The respondents are required to submit their objections within four weeks. The court has clarified that if multiplexes fail in their challenge, refunds for online bookings must be returned to viewers, while cash collections could later be allocated for public welfare. Conversely, if multiplexes succeed, they will retain the earnings. MAI must file monthly account statements with the licensing authority, and failure by any multiplex to comply would make the ticket cap applicable to that particular cinema.