Karnataka Legislators Demand More IPL Tickets, Cite Disrespect at Chinnaswamy Stadium
In a heated session on Thursday, legislators from various political parties in Karnataka took a firm stance, demanding an increase in complimentary tickets for matches at the Karnataka State Cricket Association's Chinnaswamy Stadium, including the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The lawmakers expressed frustration over what they described as disrespectful treatment and inadequate access during cricket events.
Lawmakers Voice Concerns Over Ticket Allocation
Ahead of Saturday's IPL opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad, legislators highlighted issues of disrespect at the stadium, calling for improved seating arrangements and better access. Assembly Speaker UT Khader and Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti directed the government to ensure that at least four VIP tickets are provided to each Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA).
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar assured the House of his intervention, noting his personal acquaintance with KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad. "I'm a voting member of KSCA. There is nothing wrong with what MLAs are asking," he stated, emphasizing the legitimacy of the request.
Challenges in Meeting the Demand
With a collective strength of nearly 300 legislators (224 in the assembly and 75 in the council), the demand translates to approximately 1,200 tickets, presenting a significant challenge given the stadium's limited capacity. Currently, each MLA receives one complimentary ticket for the P3 stand, while ministers are allotted two such tickets plus an invitation to watch matches from the committee room, a VIP box.
A KSCA source explained the complexities: "If KSCA gives away 1,200 passes to legislators, it will have very few left for others, which include other government arms like police, Greater Bengaluru Authority, fire, food and civil supplies. This is apart from the passes earmarked for BCCI, international and domestic players, coaches, umpires, and clubs."
VIP Stands and Franchise Control
The allocation of tickets to premier stands could become contentious, as KSCA controls only a portion of the tickets, with the majority held by the franchise. For instance, the P2 stand has just 320 seats, with tickets averaging Rs 55,000 each. "There aren't many premier seats to accommodate requests because the franchise, too, has sponsor and client commitments," added the source.
Legislators' Experiences and Demands
Speaker Khader pointed out that MLAs often face difficulties at stadium gates. "One ticket is given per MLA, and VIP tickets are issued only if the MLA attends in person. However, MLAs find it difficult to stand in queues as staff do not recognise them, leading to a sense of disrespect," he said. He urged that at least four VIP stand tickets be provided to MLAs and their families to encourage attendance.
BJP leader R Ashoka criticized the situation, stating, "They have crores of rupees, yet they treat us in a way we have to plead for tickets. Our tickets are non-transferable." He suggested that legislators are willing to pay for tickets and highlighted that KSCA pays nominal rent for the 16.3-acre stadium land while match tickets are priced between Rs 2,000 and Rs 3,000.
Congress member Vijayananda Kashappanavar echoed these sentiments, questioning why MLAs receive only one ticket. "The government should ensure proper seating arrangements. Our families also want to watch matches. Should they not get that opportunity?" he asked, alleging that tickets are sometimes sold at a 10x premium.
Proposal for a New Stadium
The discussion also touched on a proposal for a new stadium at Hoskote. Minister KJ George mentioned a plan linked to the relocation of the Jakkur Flying Training School but noted that it was opposed in the cabinet by Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, leading Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to put the proposal on hold.
Current Ticket Allocation Summary
- MLAs: 224
- MLCs: 75
- Request for passes/tickets: 4 each
- What they get now:
- MLA: 1 complimentary ticket for P3 stand
- Ministers: 2 complimentary tickets for the P3 stand + an invite for the minister and spouse to watch from the committee room
