MLAs to Get Two Tickets Each as Karnataka Gears Up for IPL Opener

Bengaluru, March 2026 : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar on Friday announced that Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) will receive two tickets each for the opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) at Bengaluru’s iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The decision follows discussions with the Karnataka State Cricket Association and the franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Addressing the media at the Congress office, Shivakumar said he had personally intervened to secure additional tickets for legislators. “I requested two tickets per MLA, and both RCB and KSCA have agreed. Given the limited time and high demand, further arrangements can be explored in the future,” he stated.

The move comes amid concerns raised by legislators over inadequate access to match tickets. Karnataka Assembly Speaker U. T. Khader had earlier suggested issuing four tickets per MLA. However, Shivakumar clarified that such an increase was not feasible this season due to the majority of tickets already being sold. “Earlier, MLAs, MPs, and ministers used to receive one ticket. Now we have managed to secure two tickets each for the opening match,” he added, indicating that the matter may be revisited later.

As the IPL season begins on March 28, the state administration has intensified preparations to ensure smooth conduct of matches. Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh chaired a high-level review meeting with officials, KSCA representatives, and other stakeholders to assess security and logistics.

The meeting focused on crowd management, security arrangements inside and outside the stadium, traffic regulation, and parking facilities. Special emphasis was placed on ensuring essential services such as drinking water and public convenience for spectators.

Authorities also reviewed metro and train operations to handle the anticipated surge in passenger traffic. Additional security measures at metro stations and key transit points have been put in place. Rajneesh instructed officials to remain vigilant and ensure that even minor disruptions are avoided.

She further directed strict compliance with all government safety protocols and called for seamless coordination among departments. Senior officials, including the city police commissioner, metro authorities, and civic agencies, were asked to stay on high alert throughout the tournament.

Meanwhile, the issue of ticket allocation had sparked debate in the Assembly. Speaker Khader pointed out that MLAs often face inconvenience due to limited ticket access and lack of recognition at the venue. He noted that some legislators hesitate to attend matches as staff may not identify them or extend due courtesy.

Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka also weighed in, alleging that authorities might resist increasing allocations and suggesting that the government use its regulatory influence if necessary. He raised questions about licensing and facilities at the stadium, calling for stricter oversight.

Responding to these concerns, Shivakumar assured that the government would continue engaging with stakeholders to address the issue. For now, the allocation of two tickets per MLA offers a temporary solution as Bengaluru prepares to host the much-anticipated IPL opener with heightened excitement and tight arrangements.