Karnataka MLAs to get 3 free IPL tickets each: DK Shivakumar amid VIP culture row

All MLAs in Karnataka will receive three free tickets to watch IPL matches at Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said on Monday after a meeting with officials of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA).

The announcement comes in the wake of a heated row, with legislators across party lines raising concerns over inadequate ticket allocation and seating arrangements, while some opposition MLAs criticising the practice as an example of VIP culture.

According to Shivakumar, MLAs will be allotted three complimentary tickets for IPL matches. For international matches, each MLA will receive two tickets, with the option to purchase two additional seats.

“I spoke to RCB representatives and KSCA officials. It has been agreed that legislators will be given three free tickets. Any MLA who does not wish to avail them can submit a letter. I am aware of how many tickets are allotted in other states. KSCA has also said that for international matches, two tickets will be given per MLA, and two more can be purchased,” the Congress leader told the media.

The issue was raised in the Assembly last week, following which Speaker UT Khader directed the government to ensure that every MLA receives four VIP tickets for matches at the stadium. Earlier, legislators used to get only one ticket.

KSCA officials, led by its president and former cricketer Venkatesh Prasad, met Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar on Friday to discuss the matter.

Amid criticism over VIP culture, Shivakumar had earlier defended the demand, stating, “MLAs have a right, because they are part of the system and part of the government.”

However, BJP MP Tejasvi Surya slammed the demand, saying MLAs “pleading for tickets” exposes a deeper issue, “a VIP mindset that treats public office as an entitlement”. Meanwhile, senior BJP leader R Ashoka distanced himself from Surya’s remarks, describing them as his personal opinion.

Senior Karnataka BJP MLA S Suresh Kumar had rejected the tickets, calling the decision a "VIP culture".

The Karnataka Assembly has a strength of 224 MLAs, while the state is represented by 28 MPs in Parliament.

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