The Karnataka Legislative Assembly witnessed a rare moment of cross-party agreement on Thursday as lawmakers demanded complimentary premium tickets for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Congress MLA Vijayananda Kashappanavar from Hungund raised the issue, requesting at least five free VIP tickets per legislator along with a dedicated lounge.
He argued that MLAs, as elected representatives, should not be required to stand in queues or book tickets online.
The demand was supported by BJP Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka and several other members, who noted that the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) receives government facilities and land support.
Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader instructed the state government to ensure that each of the 224 MLAs receives a minimum of four VIP or premium tickets.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who oversees Bengaluru Development, has been tasked with coordinating the matter with the KSCA.
The request comes ahead of the IPL 2026 season opener on March 28, featuring Royal Challengers Bengaluru against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Tickets for the matches have seen high demand, with reports of rapid sell-outs and black-marketing affecting general public access.
The KSCA is yet to issue an official response to the directive.
The development has triggered widespread discussion on social media regarding the priorities of public representatives.
Post's Author
