In a landmark move aimed at safeguarding the well-being of children, the Telangana High Court has issued a directive barring children below the age of 16 from attending movie screenings after 11 pm. This decision reflects growing concerns over the physical and mental health impacts of late-night shows on minors and follows an unfortunate incident highlighting the need for stricter regulations.
The High Court directed the Telangana government to consult stakeholders and introduce clear guidelines regulating the entry of children below 16 years into theatres and multiplexes, both before 11 am and after 11 pm. Until such guidelines are finalized, theatres and multiplex operators are prohibited from allowing minors to attend late-night shows.
This interim measure underscores the court's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of children while encouraging the government to act swiftly on a permanent resolution.
The directive stems from a petition filed by Vijay Gopal, who raised concerns over minors attending late-night movie screenings. He highlighted the risks associated with such practices, including potential adverse effects on children’s physical and mental health.
A particularly tragic incident during a benefit show of Pushpa 2 in December last year further emphasized the urgency of these measures. A stampede at Sandhya Theatre resulted in severe injuries to a minor boy and the tragic death of his mother. This event amplified calls for better crowd management and stricter regulations for minors in entertainment venues.
Late-Night Shows Under Scrutiny
Currently, multiplexes often schedule their last shows to end as late as 1:30 am, with no restrictions on minors attending these screenings. This practice has come under intense scrutiny, with advocates arguing that late-night shows disrupt sleep patterns, affect academic performance, and expose minors to potentially unsuitable content.
The court has tasked the state government with consulting all stakeholders, including theatre owners, parents, and child welfare experts, to draft comprehensive regulations. These measures are expected to address not only the timing of movie screenings but also ticket pricing and safety protocols, particularly for high-demand shows.
While entertainment remains an integral part of modern life, this ruling highlights the need to balance leisure activities with the responsibilities of ensuring children's welfare. Parents and guardians are encouraged to remain vigilant about the content and timing of movies their children attend.
The Telangana High Court's proactive stance sets a precedent for other states to consider similar measures. By prioritizing the well-being of minors, this decision underscores the importance of creating safer, more inclusive public spaces for families.
As the government works on formalizing these regulations, stakeholders and citizens alike must unite to support policies that prioritize the safety and development of future generations. The movie-going experience, while entertaining, should never come at the cost of a child’s health and safety.
This development is a reminder of the evolving societal responsibilities towards nurturing a secure environment for all, reinforcing that thoughtful entertainment and well-being can coexist harmoniously.
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Akanksha Sinha
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