Earlier, Shivakumar met with officials from the KSCA, the organization managing the stadium, after Assembly members from various parties voiced concerns about inadequate ticketing and seating arrangements at the prominent venue.
In response, Speaker U T Khader requested the government to ensure that each MLA receives four VIP tickets during matches at the stadium.
KSCA officials, led by President Venkatesh Prasad, a former cricketer, met with both Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar on Friday.
“I called and communicated with them, asking for one extra ticket for MLAs. I will continue to engage with them in the future. Previously, they provided one ticket. Now I have asked for two, and they have agreed. I have talked to both RCB and KSCA,” Shivakumar stated.
Speaking to reporters, he further explained, “The Speaker directed that four tickets be provided per MLA, but since tickets have already been sold, we can’t offer four at this time. Previously, every MLA, MP, and Minister received one ticket. Now we have requested two tickets.” He added, “We will discuss further arrangements later, but for the first (IPL) match tomorrow, they will receive two tickets.”
The Karnataka Assembly consists of 224 MLAs, along with 28 MPs representing the state.
Earlier, Shivakumar justified the legislators’ requests, which faced criticism from some quarters, asserting, “MLAs have a right to this, as they are integral to the system and government.” Khader instructed the government on Thursday after several MLAs, including Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka, reported receiving only one ticket and inadequate seating during matches. Additionally, some members requested a separate lounge for legislators at the stadium.
The reigning champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), will face Sunrisers Hyderabad in the inaugural IPL 2026 match on March 28.
Meanwhile, BJP MP Tejasvi Surya condemned the MLAs for “pleading for tickets” to this high-profile event.
“If Karnataka’s MLAs had focused their time in the Vidhana Soudha (Assembly) on discussing safety and security for IPL fans, it would have maintained the House’s dignity. Instead, we witnessed MLAs pleading and even threatening for complimentary tickets for themselves and their families.” He emphasized, “This reflects a flawed priority and reveals a deeper issue – a VIP mentality that views public office as entitlement.” He questioned, “Why should any sports organization owe MLAs anything? Elected representatives should not expect privileges denied to ordinary citizens.”
Stressing that public office is a responsibility rather than a privilege, the Bengaluru South MP proclaimed, “This culture must change.” In response, Shivakumar remarked, “Let Mr. Tejasvi Surya offer his wisdom to his party, not to me.” Ashoka, speaking to reporters on Friday, characterized Surya’s remarks as a personal opinion.
He clarified that the requests made by him and some other MLAs for additional tickets were not for personal use but meant to be distributed to athletes, enthusiasts, or cricket club members in their constituencies.
He also emphasized that they were not seeking these tickets for free.
However, State BJP President B Y Vijayendra expressed his personal disapproval of MLAs requesting IPL tickets.
“We legislators are not above or distinct from ordinary citizens. We should refrain from seeking special privileges. I oppose the notion of legislators asking for IPL tickets,” he told reporters.
