Karnataka Legislative Council Speaker Uta Khader on Thursday directed the state government to ensure that every MLA is provided with at least four VIP tickets for the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches in Bengaluru being held at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
The directive comes after members across party lines complained of being allocated only one ticket and, in some cases, being asked to access general seating areas. Some lawmakers also called for a dedicated hall inside the stadium.
The opening match of the IPL 2026 season is scheduled to be held on March 28, which will feature a match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The Speaker also called for proper seating arrangements for lawmakers and their families. He pointed to recurring problems at entry points, including lawmakers being forced to stand in lines and not being recognized by staff.
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Speaking on the matter, Congress MLA Kashappanavar Vijayananda Shivashankarappa said that the elected representatives were forced to stand in queues or buy tickets despite their right to get passes. “There is an Indian Premier League match on March 28, but the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) is not providing tickets to MLA players, ministers or their families. We cannot stand in queues like common people. Last time, they made us stand in queue and then we were sent to a combined exhibition,” he said.
He also alleged irregularities in ticket sales. “They take all facilities from the government, including security, but they do not respect elected representatives. Tickets are sold through online channels and intermediaries,” he added, claiming that ticket prices $5000 resold $ 35000.
On the directions of the Speaker, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar said he would immediately discuss the issue with KSCA officials. “There is nothing wrong with MLAs asking for that,” he said.
