After the matter was raised in the Assembly on Thursday, Speaker U T Khader instructed the government to ensure that each MLA receives four VIP tickets at the stadium for matches. Legislators claimed they were subjected to “disrespect” by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), the entity managing the venue.
“MLAs have a right to be accommodated, as they are part of the system and the government. In the past, they were given due respect. With considerable effort and under pressure, we allowed matches to continue,” he remarked, likely referencing the KSCA’s ability to hold events following last year’s tragic stampede during RCB’s IPL victory celebrations, which left 11 people dead and numerous injured.
“While I may be a member (of KSCA), that’s a separate matter and pertains to my personal capacity,” Shivakumar informed reporters.
“I will be in talks with the President and others (at KSCA); I aim to ensure our MLAs are accommodated. This is my priority today,” he added.
Khader issued the directive to the government on Thursday after several MLAs, including Opposition Leader R Ashoka from the BJP, complained that they received only one ticket and lacked proper seating during matches. A number of members also called for a dedicated lounge for legislators at the stadium.
The issue was raised in the House just days before reigning champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were set to face Sunrisers Hyderabad in the opening match of IPL 2026 on March 28.
In the meantime, BJP MP Tejasvi Surya criticized the MLAs for “pleading for tickets” to the high-profile event.
“Had Karnataka’s MLAs dedicated time in the Vidhana Soudha (Assembly) to discuss safety and security for IPL fans, they would have preserved the dignity of the House. Instead, we witnessed MLAs begging and even threatening for complimentary tickets for themselves and their families.” This reflects poor priorities and reveals a deeper issue – “a VIP mindset that perceives public office as a privilege.” “Why should any sports organization owe anything to MLAs? Why should elected officials anticipate advantages that are denied to ordinary citizens?” he questioned.
Emphasizing that public office is a responsibility, not a privilege, the Bengaluru South MP declared, “This culture must change.” In response, Shivakumar stated, “Let Mr. Tejasvi Surya share his insights (advice) with his party members, not with me.”
