The National Consumer Forum in India decided in one case that cinema halls can’t stop a person from taking drinking water inside. If they do so then they have to provide proper drinking water arrangements. A person paid 11 thousand rupees as compensation for not allowing someone to take drinking water inside the hall. According to the Bench in the judgment, failing to provide adequate drinking water or not allowing to take drinking water inside will result in a violation of consumer’s rights. These are some basic rights which you should be aware of while going to watch a movie in the cinema hall. Read them carefully.
Viewers can take compensation they are not provided a relaxed and comfortable environment to watch a movie. You can file a complaint in the Consumer Forum if you feel a violation of any of your rights. The Consumer Forum has given many decisions which were a relief to the consumers. Matters up to 20 lakhs are dealt in the District Consumer Forum and require a minimal fee of Rs. 100-500. Matters above Rs. 20 lakhs are dealt in State Consumer Forum.
1. Basic Facilities Provided By Cinema
Cinema halls must provide all basic facilities to the viewers such as toilet, clean halls, and seats, security etc. Moreover, this is the right of every viewer.
2. Don’t Buy Water
Cinema halls can’t stop you from taking drinking water inside. If they do so then they must have a proper supply of drinking water available. Also, they can’t force you to buy expensive water bottles from their cafeteria. It is not acceptable.
3. Violation Of Act
If cinema halls force you to buy expensive water bottles from their cafeteria then they are violating a major act. This is a violation of Consumer Protection Act 1986 Section 2 (R).
4. Disposable Glasses Must
Not only just a proper drinking water supply, but the cinema halls have to also provide disposable glasses alongside water purifiers. National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission clarified this.
5. Water Is Free Of Cost
Cinema Hall manager has to maintain drinking water supply throughout the movie. This facility is to be provided free of cost.
So, these were some of the rights which you should be aware of while going to watch a movie in a cinema hall or multiplex. Do you think to buy combos really save your money? Check out these things while going to a movie at a cinema hall.
