Karnataka resolves IPL ticket allocation issue, reducing quota for MLAs and MPs while outlining new rules for international matches.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar with Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) President Venkatesh Prasad, DNA Entertainment Networks Managing Director T. Venkat Vardhan, KSCA Chief Communication Officer Vinay Mruthyunjay, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru CEO Rajesh Menon during a meeting at his residence in Bengaluru on Monday, March 30, 2026. (Photo: IANS/X/@DKShivakumar)
D. K. Shivakumar, Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka and president of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, on Monday said the issue of ticket allocation for Indian Premier League matches has been resolved after discussions with key stakeholders.
The decision follows a meeting involving representatives from the Karnataka State Cricket Association, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and DNA Event Management.
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Shivakumar said it has been agreed that Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and Members of Parliament (MPs) will now receive three tickets per IPL match, down from the earlier allocation of four.
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For international matches, the KSCA will provide two complimentary tickets, while any additional tickets will have to be purchased.
“Two tickets will be given free, and if they want two more, they will have to purchase them,” Shivakumar said.
He added that legislators can opt out of the allocation by submitting a formal request, noting that not all demands can be accommodated.
Issue resolved after discussions
Shivakumar said he had held prior consultations with the Speaker and senior leaders before finalising the decision.
“This was a small issue. It has now been settled,” he said, adding that compared to other cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Jaipur, where a large percentage of tickets are reserved for officials, the level of interference in Karnataka remains lower.
Former India pacer and KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad was also present during the discussions.
On infrastructure, Shivakumar said discussions were held regarding increasing the seating capacity at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
“If seating capacity can be increased by 20,000, it would be beneficial. Once the proposal is submitted, the government will examine it,” he said.
He also confirmed that land has been allocated for sports infrastructure development, including 25 acres near Golden Spa, 25 acres in Tumakuru, and additional land in Mysuru. In Bengaluru, two to three locations have been identified for a new multi-sport stadium.
Responding to queries about a separate gallery for politicians, Shivakumar said he does not wish to interfere further in the matter.
He also outlined his upcoming political engagements, including campaigning in Davanagere and Bagalkot, and a visit to Kerala on April 5–6.
Commenting on elections in Assam, Shivakumar expressed confidence in the Congress party’s prospects, asserting that it would secure a strong mandate.
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