Coldplay Concert in Mumbai: As Coldplay fans eagerly await the band’s much-anticipated “Music of the Spheres World Tour 2025” in India, a troubling issue has arisen: black marketing and resale of concert tickets at exorbitant prices. In response to this illegal activity, BookMyShow, the official ticketing partner for the concert, has filed an FIR (First Information Report) against unknown individuals for ticket scalping.
The FIR and BookMyShow’s Action
On Friday, October 2, 2024, BookMyShow filed a case at Vile Parle Police Station in Mumbai, accusing unidentified persons of engaging in the black marketing of Coldplay tickets. The British rock band is set to perform at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, on January 17, 18, and 19 next year.
The legal complaint, initiated by Pooja Mitra, General Manager of the Legal Department at BookMyShow, centers around tickets being sold at inflated prices, with some reportedly reaching as high as Rs 3 lakh. The company reported that they had provided the police with 27 mobile numbers involved in reselling the concert tickets illegally via social media platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and websites such as Viagogo.com.
How the Black Market Activity Was Discovered
When Coldplay’s tickets went live for sale on September 22, 2024, BookMyShow had clearly stated that tickets should not be purchased from third-party sources. Despite this, the ticketing platform soon began receiving concerning emails from individuals who had promised others tickets in exchange for money. These individuals were asking for a large number of tickets, further raising suspicion.
According to reports, after receiving multiple alerts about such activity, BookMyShow started monitoring potential black market resellers and collaborated with law enforcement to address the issue proactively.
Sections of Law Invoked
Following BookMyShow’s complaint, the Mumbai Police registered a case under the Indian Penal Code sections related to cheating and identity theft. Specifically, the individuals involved were booked under sections 318 (4) for cheating, 319 (2) for cheating by personation, and Section 66C of the Information Technology Act, which deals with identity theft. This legal action underscores the severity of the issue, which has angered many fans who have been unable to secure tickets at official prices.
BookMyShow’s Continued Vigilance
BookMyShow has made it clear that they are not only tracking these unethical resellers but are also considering canceling tickets sold through such black-market channels. A statement released by the company reiterated their commitment to fighting ticket scalping:
“We remain vigilant in monitoring such instances of ticket reselling for this tour through black market channels and will continue to share all relevant information with the authorities to ensure appropriate action is taken.”
This proactive step followed an earlier complaint filed by BookMyShow with the Mumbai Police on September 23, 2024, long before any external complaint was raised against them. The company has been transparent in addressing the issue and has also provided the authorities with detailed information regarding individuals and platforms engaged in the unauthorized resale of tickets.
Mumbai Police Investigates Coldplay Ticket Scams
The Mumbai Police’s Economic Offences Wing (EOW) is leading the investigation into this growing problem. Earlier in October, the EOW summoned Ashish Hemrajani, CEO of Big Tree Entertainment (BookMyShow’s parent company), for questioning in connection with the alleged black market sales of Coldplay concert tickets. However, Hemrajani was reported to have skipped the summon.
This isn’t the first time such an issue has surfaced during major concerts in India, where high-profile events often lead to inflated secondary market ticket sales. With millions of fans vying for limited seats, frustration has grown, particularly as social media platforms have been flooded with complaints from individuals who either could not secure tickets or saw them listed at absurdly high prices.
Coldplay Concerts to Proceed as Planned
Despite the controversy surrounding ticketing, Coldplay’s Mumbai shows will go on as scheduled. BookMyShow has confirmed that any rumors suggesting otherwise are “factually incorrect.” The concert will take place at DY Patil Stadium on January 18, 19, and 21, 2025, as part of Coldplay’s ongoing global tour.
Ticket Reselling and Legal Measures
Ticket scalping has long been a concern for major events worldwide, and the Coldplay concert in India is the latest instance where fans have been affected. By filing an FIR and working closely with law enforcement, BookMyShow has taken strong action to protect both the integrity of the event and the interests of genuine fans. As the Mumbai Police continue their investigation, it remains to be seen what additional steps will be taken to prevent ticket black marketing in the future, ensuring that fans can attend these highly anticipated events at fair prices.
In the meantime, fans are advised to purchase tickets only through official channels and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.