Big Win for PVR, BookMyShow as Bombay High Court Clears Convenience Fees on Online Tickets

The Bombay High Court has struck down Maharashtra’s government decision to bar multiplexes and cinema operators from charging convenience fees on movie tickets booked via online platforms, calling it unconstitutional.

The court ruled the State had no authority under the Maharashtra Entertainment Duty Act to prohibit cinemas from charging such fees.

The court held that businesses have the right to price services like online booking, which involves tech costs.

The court held the ban a violation of Article 19(1)(g), which protects the right to carry on business, and rejected the State's reliance on executive powers without proper legal backing.