Karnataka Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader has directed the state government to ensure each MLA receives four premium tickets for IPL matches at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
The demand came after legislators from across party lines complained about struggling to get even a single ticket from the Karnataka State Cricket Association.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar promised to take up the matter with KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad and said there is nothing wrong in legislators seeking such perks.
Why Are Karnataka MLAs Upset Over IPL Tickets
Leader of the Opposition R. Ashok raised the issue on March 26 during a debate on Bengaluru’s development. He pointed out that the government leased 16.32 acres of land for the stadium at a nominal rent.
Despite that, MLAs find it extremely difficult to obtain tickets. Ashok claimed that when tickets do become available, they cost as much as Rs 20,000. He accused the KSCA of earning substantial revenue while making legislators beg for access.
Congress member Vijayananda Kashappanavar backed the demand and pushed for five tickets per MLA instead of four. He also called for better seating arrangements and a dedicated lounge for legislators. Kashappanavar urged the government to arrange tickets for the IPL 2026 opener between RCB and SRH on March 28.
Black Marketing Allegations Surface in Assembly
BJP member Abhay Patil raised a more serious concern during the discussion. He demanded an inquiry into alleged black marketing of IPL tickets. Patil claimed even MLAs could not purchase tickets through regular channels. Several members also complained about receiving ordinary tickets and not getting recognised at the venue despite their positions.
Ashok also questioned why the KSCA holds an excise licence. He suggested stricter regulation could help address the broader issues around ticket access and revenue generation at the stadium.
What Action Has the Government Promised
Speaker Khader directed Shivakumar to speak with the KSCA and arrange a minimum of four VIP tickets per MLA for all IPL matches in Bengaluru. Shivakumar accepted the request and committed to raising the matter with KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad directly.
RCB will play five home games at Chinnaswamy this IPL season. The venue hosts the tournament opener on March 28 between defending champions RCB and Sunrisers Hyderabad.
