Bengaluru, March 27 (NationPress) Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who also serves as the Bengaluru Development Minister, announced on Friday that arrangements have been finalized to allocate two Indian Premier League (IPL) tickets to each MLA for the opening match at the Chinnaswamy Cricket Stadium in Bengaluru. This decision follows discussions with the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

During a media briefing at the Congress office in Bengaluru, Shivakumar stated that he had directly contacted officials to request an increased allocation of tickets. "I have requested two tickets per MLA. I have coordinated with RCB and KSCA, and they have accepted the request. Given the limited timeframe this time, we can consider additional arrangements in the future," he explained.

Shivakumar mentioned that Speaker J&K Khader had called for four tickets per MLA. Nevertheless, he pointed out that this was impractical since most tickets had already been sold out. "Previously, every MLA, Member of Parliament, and minister received one ticket. Now, we've asked for two tickets each. For tomorrow's inaugural match, they will receive two tickets," he added, noting that he would consult further with the Speaker.

As the IPL matches are set to commence on Saturday (March 28), State Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh conducted a thorough review meeting with relevant officials and KSCA representatives to evaluate security and logistical readiness.

She assessed the security measures within and surrounding the stadium to guarantee the safety of cricket enthusiasts.

The meeting also concentrated on managing traffic, parking provisions, and crucial facilities like drinking water within the stadium.

Officials provided updates on expected passenger volumes in the metro, train schedules, and additional security protocols implemented at metro stations. She instructed authorities to stay alert and ensure even minor incidents are preemptively managed.

Rajneesh mandated strict compliance with all government-imposed regulations and safety guidelines for the matches' seamless execution. She also advised all departments and entities to remain vigilant and maintain constant communication with senior officials.

Present at the meeting were KSCA management, RCB representatives, the City Police Commissioner, GBA Commissioner, the Metro Managing Director, and other high-ranking officials.

In another development, KSCA President and former Indian fast bowler Venkatesh Prasad, along with other committee members, met with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to discuss the ticketing issue for Karnataka MLAs at IPL matches held at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. This matter was raised in the Assembly on Thursday, where Speaker J&K Khader urged the government to engage with the relevant authorities.

Khader indicated that MLAs are currently being issued only one ordinary ticket due to concerns that legislators often pass their tickets to others, resulting in overcrowding and management complications in the VIP section.

He highlighted that this arrangement has been causing inconvenience and embarrassment to the MLAs. "When an MLA attends a match, the staff may not recognize them and may not treat them with the respect they deserve. Consequently, many MLAs feel hesitant to attend matches," he remarked.

The Speaker proposed that discussions be held with the authorities to establish a clear policy. He recommended that at least four tickets be issued to each MLA and that proper arrangements be made to ensure they are treated with due respect. His suggestions received applause from the legislators present.

Opposition Leader R. Ashoka alleged that compliance from the authorities would not come easily and urged the government to utilize its regulatory powers. "Tighten the screws, and they will comply," he commented.

Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar assured that he would investigate the matter further.