Ticket Trouble at Cineplex: Complaints Mount Over Booking Glitches and License Lapses
Cinema-goers in the capital are flocking to various branches of Star Cineplex to watch films released during Eid. However, many viewers have complained of being unable to secure tickets even after making payments. Renowned director Kajal Arefin Ome, known for ‘Bachelor Point,’ also raised concerns about the country’s most advanced cinema chain after experiencing an issue where payment was deducted online but the ticket was not confirmed.
In response to the complaint, Star Cineplex authorities posted on their Facebook page: “Dear viewers, if you face any issues with online ticketing, please email us at [email protected] or inbox us with your contact number and payment screenshot. Thank you for your cooperation.” Many users commented under the post, stating that although ticket booking payments were deducted, the issue of ticket confirmation remained unresolved. Earlier, the technology-driven cinema chain had also gone viral over allegations of operating without proper licensing.
According to sources, on Tuesday, March 24, a mobile court conducted a drive at the popular multiplex ‘Star Cineplex’ located in Panthapath, Dhaka. During the drive, it was revealed before the court that the establishment had been operating for nearly 20 years without a valid license. In addition to licensing complications, the court also found evidence of customer suffering related to ticket purchases.
Regarding the matter, the mobile court stated, “Many people are purchasing tickets but are unable to print them upon arrival, even though the payment has been deducted from their accounts. We have discussed the issue with the authority, who informed us that refunds will be issued within seven working days.”
The Cineplex authorities attributed the glitches to technical or software-related issues. The court added, “This appears to be a software issue. Similar problems occur in other online purchases where money is deducted but the payment does not go through. They have assured that refunds will be made within seven working days for those affected. They have also expressed sincere regret. However, the main inconvenience for consumers is that many who travel long distances are unable to watch the movie.”
The court further stated, “We have warned them to resolve the software issues quickly. No financial penalty was imposed today. We spoke with them during the drive and, considering the current situation, they have been given an opportunity to address the issues.”
After the drive, the mobile court informed journalists that the Star Cineplex had been operating its business based only on a No Objection Certificate (NOC). The court said, “As you have seen today, they are operating a cinema hall, but such operations require a license from the district administration or the Deputy Commissioner.”
“They obtained an NOC in 2004 but have not acquired any proper license. In that sense, they are running an unlicensed business. Their parent company is Showmotion Limited, but there is no mention anywhere that Star Cineplex is operated under Showmotion Limited.”
It is noteworthy that authorities have indicated the possibility of legal action and significant fines against Star Cineplex over long-standing allegations of operating without proper licensing and potential tax evasion.
DBTech/MAR/EK/OR
