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New Delhi: Political controversy in Karnataka before IPL 2026 season

Before the start of IPL 2026, the political turmoil in Karnataka has intensified. Congress MLA Vijayanand Kashapanavar has demanded at least five tickets for IPL matches for all MLAs. He says that public representatives should get special respect and they should not stand in queues for tickets like the common people.

Controversy emerged over ticket demand of MLAs

Vijayanand Kashapanavar alleged that Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) takes many facilities from the government, but does not give due respect to the MLAs. He said that irregularities are taking place in online ticket sales and public representatives are not getting priority. His suggestion is that there should be at least five tickets and separate seating arrangements for the MLAs.

opposition support

The opposition has also expressed support on this issue. BJP leader R. Raising questions in the Assembly, Ashoka said that when government land has been given to KSCA at a cheaper rate, then why are the ticket prices so high? He termed it an injustice to the general public and demanded transparency.

Government’s assurance

Assembly Speaker U. T. Khadar suggested that the government should talk to KSCA in this matter. Deputy CM DK Shivakumar assured that the issue will be taken seriously and the demands of the MLAs will be considered. He said that public representatives should get proper facilities.

clash of sports and politics

This controversy has emerged at a time when the new season of IPL is about to start, in which the inaugural match will be played between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad. This development has once again raised the question whether political privilege should find a place in sports events.

Opening ceremony canceled

BCCI has decided not to organize a grand opening ceremony this time. This decision has been taken in memory of the 11 people who lost their lives in the stampede in Bengaluru last year. The board has taken the decision to cancel the opening ceremony of IPL 2026 as a tribute to him. Last year, 11 people died in the incident that took place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium after RCB won, and the board and RCB have still not been able to forget this tragic incident.