Telangana Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkata Reddy has made key remarks about movie ticket price hikes in Telangana. The state earlier allowed higher ticket prices and premier shows for Hindupur MLA Balakrishna's film Akhanda 2.
However, a single judge bench of the High Court suspended the price hike and cancelled premier shows. The original plan was to increase ticket prices by Rs 50 in single screens and Rs 100 in multiplexes for the first three days, along with Rs 600 for premier shows.
After the High Court ruling, the ticket prices for Akhanda 2 were not increased. Komatireddy Venkata Reddy has now stated that there will be no ticket price hikes going forward.
He requested that producers and directors must not approach the government seeking price hikes. He said their governance follows the spirit of Indiramma's governance and decisions will consider the interests of poor people. He questioned why heroes earn crores and yet producers ask for higher ticket rates before release.
He added that ticket prices should remain affordable so common families can enjoy movies together. He admitted that a mistake occurred earlier but said the government is clear about its stance now.
His comments have sparked wide debate among film watchers and those within TFI.