Bengaluru, March 27 (NationPress) The Karnataka Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, has endorsed the requests from state legislators in the Assembly for VIP treatment and IPL tickets, indicating that such demands are not inappropriate.

During a media briefing on Friday, Parameshwara remarked, “There is no issue with MLAs seeking IPL tickets in the Assembly. The primary concern is the extent of the government's involvement. Historically, the government has not engaged in these matters. However, following the tragic stampede incident in 2025, we were obligated to intervene.”

He further explained that previously, law enforcement only ensured safety, but now they will also work to prevent any disturbances. “We have established the Michael D’Cunha Commission, integrating its recommendations. A new committee within the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has been formed, and we have communicated these recommendations to them,” he elaborated.

Parameshwara also mentioned that KSCA was informed that matches could not proceed without adherence to safety recommendations. “Subsequently, they complied with the guidelines. While it is acceptable to request tickets, the distribution is ultimately at the discretion of KSCA and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB),” he stated.

When questioned about the ongoing discussions regarding a Cabinet reshuffle and reports of MLAs contemplating a trip to Delhi post-bypolls, Parameshwara acknowledged, “MLAs have indeed hosted dinner meetings and sought appointments in Delhi. They possess the right to do so. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has already affirmed in the House that all 224 MLAs are eligible for ministerial positions, and those deemed suitable will be granted opportunities.”

Addressing the current agitation for internal reservations, he remarked that it is natural for communities to seek justice. “The government will make a conclusive decision within the legal framework. Their requests will be evaluated based on the principles of social justice,” he indicated.

He clarified that legal issues prompted the delay of a special Cabinet meeting. “The Chief Minister and Chief Secretary assessed the legal implications. Discussions held in the Cabinet, if disclosed publicly, could sway voters and breach Election Commission regulations. Hence, consultations with the Advocate General and the Election Commission advised against holding a special Cabinet meeting at this time,” he noted.

“Consequently, the meeting has been rescheduled for April 9. Until then, no notifications can be released,” he added.

It is noteworthy that the subject of IPL tickets for Karnataka MLAs at Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium was raised in the Assembly on Thursday, with Speaker U.T. Khader urging the government to address the issue with the relevant authorities.

Khader highlighted that MLAs are currently allotted only one standard ticket, reportedly due to concerns that legislators frequently transfer their tickets to others, resulting in overcrowding and management problems in the VIP area.

He emphasized that this arrangement is causing both inconvenience and embarrassment for MLAs. “When an MLA attends a match, the staff may not recognize them and fail to extend the respect they deserve. Consequently, many MLAs are hesitant to attend matches,” he remarked.

The Speaker proposed that authorities be convened for discussions and that a clear policy be established. He recommended issuing at least four tickets to each MLA and ensuring respectful treatment. His suggestions were met with applause from fellow legislators.

Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka claimed that compliance from the authorities would not come easily and advised the government to utilize its regulatory power. He questioned the issuance of CL-7 liquor licenses at the Chinnaswamy Cricket Stadium during matches and the operation of bars at the location. “Tighten the regulations, and they will comply,” he asserted.

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