Karnataka's IPL Ticket Allocation: A New Deal for Legislators and MPs

Ticket Allocation for IPL Matches Settled

Bengaluru: D. K. Shivakumar, the Deputy Chief Minister and President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, announced on Monday that the ticket distribution for Indian Premier League (IPL) matches has been amicably resolved, resulting in a new allocation for legislators and Members of Parliament.

This announcement followed a meeting with representatives from the Karnataka State Cricket Association, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and DNA Event Management Company.

Shivakumar mentioned that he had previously discussed the ticketing issue with the Speaker and senior party leaders.

The new arrangement stipulates that each Member of the Legislative Assembly and Member of Parliament will receive three tickets for IPL matches, reduced from four. For international matches, the Karnataka State Cricket Association will provide two complimentary tickets, with any additional tickets needing to be purchased.

He clarified, “Two tickets will be provided free of charge, and if they wish for two more, they will need to buy them.”

The discussions included representatives from Royal Challengers Bangalore, the DNA network, and the management of the Karnataka State Cricket Association.

Venkatesh Prasad, the President of the Karnataka State Cricket Association and a former Indian pacer, was also part of the talks.

Shivakumar stated, “If any member does not require tickets, they can submit a letter. Members of the Legislative Assembly often have numerous requests, and not all can be accommodated. This issue has now been resolved.”

He pointed out that in states like Rajasthan, Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata, a significant portion of tickets, often exceeding 50 to 60 percent, is allocated to government officials and similar categories.

“In comparison to those regions, there is less interference here,” he added, confirming that the matter is now settled.

On the topic of infrastructure, he mentioned that discussions were held to enhance the seating capacity at Chinnaswamy Stadium, with authorities instructed to submit a proposal to the government.

“If we can increase the seating capacity by 20,000, it would be advantageous. The government will review the proposal once it is submitted,” he stated.

When asked about a separate gallery for politicians, he expressed his desire not to interfere further.

“It was a minor request. For Royal Challengers Bangalore matches, three tickets will be issued, and for other matches, two tickets will be provided. I will not intervene beyond this,” he remarked.

Additionally, he mentioned that the government has allocated land for sports infrastructure, including 25 acres near Golden Spa, 25 acres in Tumakuru, and land in Mysuru. In Bengaluru, two to three sites have been identified for the development of a new stadium that can accommodate various sports, not just cricket.

Regarding upcoming by-elections, Shivakumar indicated that he would campaign in Davanagere on Tuesday, while Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has already begun campaigning in Bagalkot.

“I will visit Bagalkot the next day, return to Davanagere, and then head back to Bagalkot,” he explained.

He also mentioned plans to travel to Kerala on April 5 and 6.

Shivakumar announced that he, along with All India Congress Committee General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala, will hold a press conference at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee office to address the cooking gas crisis.

On the topic of Assam, he reaffirmed the Congress party's commitment to its promises.

“We have made guarantees in Assam and delivered speeches there. The Congress always honors its commitments, unlike those who promised Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts and ‘Acche Din’,” he stated.

He shared that he has visited Assam multiple times and recently enjoyed local cuisine at a hotel, describing it as delicious.

“Although I used to enjoy non-vegetarian food, I am now a vegetarian,” he added.

Expressing confidence in the party's prospects in Assam, he remarked, “While Amit Shah claims they will achieve a two-thirds majority, I predict they will secure only one-third, while we will achieve a two-thirds majority.”