‘Bitten’ by rat while watching movie, Kerala man wins Rs 18,000 from theatre

A Kerala man who claimed a rat bit him while watching a movie at a theatre in Kasaragod has been awarded Rs 18,000 in compensation, including Rs 3,000 for litigation costs. The Kerala consumer commission ruled that the incident was a "very serious issue" and placed the onus on the theatre management to ensure the safety and security of customers.

The complainant, who stated he was bitten shortly before the film ended, reported the incident but alleged the staff did not take it seriously. He subsequently visited a hospital, incurring treatment costs of around Rs 1,500, while the theatre only reimbursed Rs 1,000. The complainant sought Rs 20,000 in compensation, which the commission awarded after reviewing his ticket, medical records, and the theatre's denial of the allegations.