Consumer court directs Kochi multiplexes to provide free drinking water if outside food and beverages are restricted. Kochi: The Ernakulam District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has issued a key directive to multiplexes in Kerala, stating that if outside food and beverages are not permitted inside cinema halls, the theatres must ensure free availability of purified drinking water to all customers. The directive was part of a recent verdict on a consumer complaint filed by a Kozhikode native against PVR Cinemas in Kochi. PVR further clarified that it does not compel customers to purchase food and also provides purified drinking water free of charge within its premises. However, the court referred to a previous Supreme Court ruling which upheld the right of cinema theatre owners to restrict outside food.