Congress MLA Vijayanand Kashappanavar said legislators across party lines want tickets to be allotted under a special arrangement so they do not have to purchase them. Responding to the demand, Assembly Speaker UT Khader has asked the state government to ensure that each MLA is provided with four VIP tickets for matches at M Chinnaswamy Stadium.
The demand arose after MLAs alleged they were treated with “disrespect” by the Karnataka State Cricket Association, which manages the stadium. Kashappanavar argued that legislators are VIPs and should not be expected to stand in queues or book tickets online.
He also criticised the association, claiming it benefits from government support but fails to extend adequate courtesy to elected representatives. He further alleged that online ticket sales often lead to black marketing, with prices rising significantly above their original value.
The demand, he said, has backing from leaders across parties, including BJP MLA R Ashoka. Legislators have also sought separate seating arrangements, stating that being made to sit in general galleries during previous matches was unacceptable.
Kashappanavar added that the issue has been taken up with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who has assured that he will discuss the matter with KSCA officials and update the Assembly.
The 2026 IPL season is set to begin on March 28, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru facing Sunrisers Hyderabad in the opening match at the Bengaluru venue.
