Delhi cracks down on cinema halls over-pricing beverages

The Delhi government on Thursday carried out surprise inspections at cinema halls across the city which are allegedly charging exorbitant prices for packaged food and beverages.

The surprise inspections were carried out in 14 cinema halls on Wednesday and action was initiated in at least 12 cases, the government said.

Some inspections were also carried out at restaurants and eateries.

The issue concerning consumers rights was raised during the ongoing Delhi assembly session on Tuesday after which Food and Civil Supplies Minister Imran Hussain ordered inspections.

"Two restro-bars were booked for dual MRP on water bottles and soft drinks," a government statement said.

The minister had earlier directed resolution of the issue of 'dual MRP' -- pricing of a product differentially at retail shops, cinema halls, hotels, establishments, stadiums and malls.

"Department officers informed that the matter is being taken up with various establishments and stakeholders and it is likely to be resolved soon," the statement said.

The Food and Civil Supplies Department will carry out similar inspections at other cinema halls and establishments as well to ensure that norms of Packaged Commodity Rules (PCR) are strictly followed, it added.

--IANS

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