Bengaluru, March 27 (NationPress) Tejasvi Surya, the National President of BJP Yuva Morcha and MP for Bengaluru South, took a strong stance against the political elite on Friday, condemning the rising trend of “VIP culture” and entitlement among elected officials amidst the ongoing debate surrounding Karnataka MLAs' requests for IPL tickets.

In a social media post, Surya voiced his support for Venkatesh Prasad, President of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and former Indian cricketer. He shared an image depicting Prasad bowing in respect to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, asserting that it symbolizes the deterioration of political ethics.

“This image conveys more than mere words. It encapsulates in a single moment what our political landscape has diminished into,” he remarked.

Surya lamented that a “national icon” like Prasad, who has brought immense pride to the nation through his outstanding performances, is seen humbly addressing a Chief Minister.

“Not due to any misconduct. Not because of any failure. But merely because he fulfilled his responsibilities,” the BJP MP added, noting that such occurrences illustrate a system that demands public figures to cater to the “fragile egos of politicians” and a culture that expects “free tickets, preferential treatment, and unearned entitlement.”

Describing it as a “tragedy,” Surya emphasized that this incident reflects a profound decline in political values. “When those who have served the nation with distinction are compelled to show deference, while public officials seek privilege over accountability, something is fundamentally amiss,” he stated.

He further asserted that the matter extends beyond this singular incident, underscoring the necessity for systemic reform. “A political class that perceives power as a privilege rather than a duty must be replaced. A system where excellence submits to arrogance must be dismantled. We urgently require a new generation of political leadership across all tiers,” he remarked.

Surya urged citizens to be concerned about such developments, declaring, “India deserves superior governance.” He reaffirmed his support for Prasad, indicating that numerous others would align with him.

In a different comment, Surya criticized the Karnataka MLAs for their pursuit of IPL tickets, questioning their priorities.

“If Karnataka MLAs had devoted their time in the Vidhana Soudha to discussing safety and security measures for IPL attendees, it would have reflected the dignity of the House. Instead, we witnessed MLAs begging and even threatening for complimentary tickets for themselves and their families,” he said.

The BJP MP characterized this demand as not merely a matter of misdirected priorities but symptomatic of a larger issue. “It reveals a VIP mentality that regards public office as entitlement,” he expressed.

Questioning the expectations from sports organizations, Surya asked, “Why should any sports organization owe MLAs anything? Why should elected officials anticipate privileges denied to ordinary citizens?”

“Public office is not a privilege; it is a responsibility. This culture must be eradicated,” he asserted.

Meanwhile, State BJP President B. Y. Vijayendra commented on Friday, expressing his personal opposition to MLAs requesting IPL tickets.

“We legislators are not superior or different from the common citizen. We should not seek special privileges. I oppose this notion of legislators requesting IPL tickets,” Vijayendra stated in response to inquiries while addressing reporters at 'Jagannath Bhavan,' the party's state headquarters.

According to Vijayendra, the state government's “insensitivity, irresponsible attitude and negligence” led to the tragic loss of 11 innocent lives previously.

“When that horrific tragedy is still fresh in our memories, it is equally inappropriate to request special passes or tickets for ourselves. I am against it,” the state BJP President concluded.