360 grams of popcorn at Rs 540'; Food Department carries out surprise inspection in Kochi malls

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Food Department inspected excessive prices charged for food items sold in theatres. The Food Safety Department and the Legal Metrology Department jointly conducted an inspection of multiplex theatres operating in malls in Kochi. An inspection conducted at the Cinepolis Theatre in the mall on MG Road, Kochi, found that 360 grams of popcorn was being charged at Rs. 540. However, since this falls under the unpackaged food category, the Legal Metrology Department can do nothing but remain helpless.

Earlier, Thiruvananthapuram Mayor V.V. Rajesh admitted that the corporation has limitations in taking direct action on complaints regarding the high rates charged for food items in multiplex theatres. He said that the state government and the concerned departments should intervene in the matter. There should be such a regulation that does not cause any difficulty to the theatre owners in their operations. At the same time, the mayor also demanded that food rates be adjusted in a way that is affordable to the common people. It was V.V. Rajesh who initiated the discussions on food extortion in theatres.

Meanwhile, Minister Anoop Jacob said that the government has limited ability to intervene in the matter. Popcorn is currently being sold without packaging. If in a package, the weight and MRP can be checked. Charging excessive prices for bottled water is a very serious matter. The minister said that not allowing people to take water from outside is a violation of human rights.