The Delhi Police has issued a formal notice to the Chief Executive Officers of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) regarding allegations of black marketing of Indian Premier League (IPL) tickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The notice comes after a series of complaints from cricket fans who claimed they were forced to purchase tickets at inflated prices from unauthorized sellers outside the venue during recent IPL matches.
Details of the Notice
According to police sources, the notice demands an explanation from the DDCA CEOs about the alleged involvement of stadium staff and ticketing officials in the black marketing racket. The police have also sought details of the ticketing process, including the number of tickets sold online and offline, and the measures taken to prevent unauthorized sales. The notice warns of legal action if the association fails to cooperate with the investigation.
Fan Complaints and Police Action
Several fans had taken to social media platforms to report that they were unable to purchase tickets through official channels and were forced to buy them at exorbitant rates from touts near the stadium. The Delhi Police’s Economic Offences Wing (EOW) has registered a preliminary inquiry into the matter. Police teams have also been deployed to monitor ticket sales during upcoming matches to curb black marketing.
DDCA Response
The DDCA has not yet issued an official statement regarding the notice. However, sources within the association indicated that they are cooperating with the police and have initiated an internal audit of the ticketing system. The DDCA has also assured that strict action will be taken against any employee found guilty of involvement in black marketing.
This incident has raised questions about the transparency of ticket distribution for high-demand sporting events in the capital. The Delhi Police has urged fans to report any instances of black marketing through their helpline numbers.
