PVR fined over a lakh for showing 25 minutes of ads before screening movie

PVR Cinemas and PVR Inox have been fined Rs 1.28 lakh for allegedly delaying the screening of a movie by 25 minutes for showing advertisements.

While issuing the order, the consumer forum in Bengaluru asked PVR to mention the actual time of starting the movie rather than the time included for the commercials.

The commission said that the multiplex chain needs to honour people's time and not expect them to sit idle and watch ads for 25-30 minutes.

As per a media report, PVR has also been asked to pay damages to a complainant - Rs 20,000 for mental agony, Rs 8,000 as expenses for filing the complaint, and Rs 1 lakh for engaging in unfair trade practices.

Reacting to the order, PVR has issue a statement saying: "PVR INOX Limited acknowledges the Order passed by the Hon’ble District Consumer Redressal Commission, Bengaluru. We are currently reviewing the Order in detail and firmly believe that we have a strong case. Accordingly, we intend to challenge the decision before the appropriate legal forum.

"At PVR INOX, we remain committed to acting in the best interests of our valued customers. We categorically state that we have not engaged in any unfair trade practices and have always adhered to legal and regulatory requirements. Ensuring transparency and compliance has been, and will continue to be, our priority."