An Ahmedabad-based advocate has served a legal notice to multiplex giant PVR INOX Ltd., challenging its alleged refusal to accept cash payments at its Palladium Mall cinema outlet. The notice, issued by advocate Utkarsh Dave, seeks immediate clarification on the multiplex's purported "cashless-only" payment policy.
Incident at Palladium Mall
According to the notice, Dave visited the PVR INOX outlet on September 13 to watch a film. He claims that when he attempted to pay for his movie ticket in cash, staff members declined the payment and insisted on UPI. A similar situation reportedly occurred when he later tried to purchase food and beverages, with staff again demanding digital payment.
Dave's objection is not to the availability of digital payment options like UPI or card payments, but rather to the complete refusal of cash, which he argues removes consumer choice in payment methods.
Legal Grounds Cited
The legal notice references Section 26(1) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, which designates banknotes issued by the RBI as legal tender. Dave questions whether a consumer-facing business can enforce a blanket cashless policy and whether such a policy raises concerns about transparency and adequate disclosure to consumers.
Furthermore, the advocate has invoked provisions of the Consumer Protection Act, demanding clarification from PVR INOX on whether it has formally adopted a policy prohibiting cash payments. The notice states that if such a restrictive policy exists, it must be prominently displayed at all points of sale and communicated to consumers in advance, rather than being revealed only at the payment counter.
Concerns for Non-Digital Users
A key point of contention in the notice is the impact on customers who may not have access to smartphones, UPI, internet connectivity, or other digital payment facilities. Dave has asked PVR INOX to explain what arrangements are in place for such consumers and whether they would be denied service despite being willing and able to pay in lawful currency.
The notice specifically asks PVR INOX to clarify if these consumers would be denied the opportunity to purchase a ticket simply because they intend to pay in cash.
Seven-Day Deadline Issued
The legal notice also demands copies of any written instructions or internal policies directing employees not to accept cash payments. PVR INOX has been given seven days to provide a satisfactory response. Should the company fail to do so, Dave has indicated that he may escalate the matter to a consumer commission and other relevant authorities.