AIFF Elections - 'Equal Representation Of Players Necessary', Bhaichung Bhutia Moves Supreme Court Supporting CoA

Ex-Indian football captain Baichung Bhutia has moved the Supreme Court seeking the draft constitution finalised by the CoA to be adopted as the new Constitution of the All India Football Federation as it priorities and promotes welfare of the players over the vested interest of those who have been controlling Indian football for several years now.

The intervention application filed by Bhutia also seeks that the order passed by the Apex Court on 03.08.2022 directing the inclusion of 36 football players in the electoral college for the election of the executive committee of the AIFF, be given full effect. He says that the representation of players in equal numbers in the general body is a paramount change for the development of Indian Football in a healthy manner.

The application reveals that Bhutia, who has an illustrious career in international football and at present is Manager of the Sikkim football team is contesting for the post of the President of AIFF in the ongoing election process.

He strongly endorsed the Committee of Administrator's suggestion to give adequate representation to former football players in the administration and functioning of AIFF.

It is submitted that the major concern of FIFA seems to be that the 36 eminent players in the electoral college of the General Body would alter the membership structure of AIFF, undermining the existing members; and the same would violate the FIFA statutes. However, in its letter dated 25.07.2022, FIFA had recommended that the AIFF bring in a presence of above 25 % of the eminent players in the executive committee of AIFF. The application argues that though FIFA statutes are to be compiled with, they only provide a broad framework. The members associations are permitted to follow their own governance structures, especially in respect of the structure, composition and voting powers of the General body, which is evident from the structure followed in the UK, USA, Italy and Ivory Coast.

It is averred that if AIFF were to carry out elections as per the pre-existing membership structure under FIFA's threat, it would prove to be detrimental for the future of Indian Football and its future, and the opportunity to bring about robust reforms will be lost forever. He beseeches the Apex Court to ensure that at this juncture no one is permitted to interfere with the directions issued by it.