‘Can’t queue like general public’: Karnataka MP demands free IPL tickets; speakers order VIP passes

New Delhi: With the IPL 2026 opener around the corner, Congress MP Kasappanavar Vijayananda Shivashankarappa on Thursday kicked off a row, saying lawmakers were forced to queue up or buy tickets at exorbitant prices despite being “entitled” to get passes. He also accused the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) of large-scale black marketing even as the Congress speaker intervened and directed the government to secure VIP tickets for MLAs.“There is an IPL match on the 28th but KSCA has not provided tickets to MLAs, ministers or their families. We cannot go and queue like the general public. Last time, we were asked to queue and then sent to a public gallery,” he told ANI, pointing out access and “protocol” issues.MLAs accused the association of profiting from the demand and claimed that tickets worth Rs 5,000 were being sold for up to Rs 35,000 in the black market. “They took away all facilities, including security facilities, from the government but did not respect the elected representatives. Tickets were sold through online channels and middlemen,” he claimed.The controversy has sparked concern in parliament, with cross-party members complaining of “disrespect” by the KSCA. Addressing these concerns, Speaker UT Khader directed the state government to ensure that each MLA is provided with at least four VIP tickets for matches at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.Speakers noted that MLAs often face difficulties at entry points, including having to queue and not being recognized by staff, which adds to the sense of indignity. He also asked the government to ensure proper seating arrangements for legislators and their families.Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said he would immediately speak to KSCA officials and update the House about the situation, asserting that MLAs have the right to seek such facilities.The altercation took place days before IPL 2026 kicks off in Bengaluru on March 28, where Royal Challengers Bangalore will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.