Others

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha has called for a Special General Meeting (SGM) on October 25 to address pressing issues that have divided the organization. The meeting will focus on the contentious appointment of CEO Raghuram Iyer, allegations of corruption against treasurer Sahdev Yadav, and the eligibility of certain Executive Council (EC) members.Usha has faced resistance from a majority of EC members on these matters. Iyer's appointment has been particularly contentious due to concerns over his pay package and suitability for the role. Usha maintains that the CEO is crucial for the smooth functioning of the IOA and has warned that delays in his appointment could jeopardize India's bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics.The SGM will also address allegations that some EC members are ineligible to hold office due to age and tenure restrictions outlined in the National Sports Code. The anonymous complaint has raised concerns about the validity of their positions.Usha's call for the SGM follows a heated confrontation with the EC on September 26, where members reiterated their opposition to Iyer's appointment. The meeting will be held in a hybrid format, allowing both physical and virtual attendance.Iyer, a former CEO of IPL teams Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants, has also held administrative roles in the Indian Super League and Ultimate Table Tennis. His appointment has been met with resistance from EC members who question his qualifications and the high salary package offered to him.The SGM will provide a platform for the IOA to address these contentious issues and reach a consensus. The outcome of the meeting will have significant implications for the organization's governance and its ability to prepare for major sporting events, including the potential bid for the 2036 Olympics.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is set for a contentious executive council meeting in New Delhi on Thursday, with members adding several contentious items to the agenda. The meeting comes amid escalating tensions between IOA president PT Usha and treasurer Sahdev Yadav.One of the key issues on the agenda is the alleged "threatening letters" issued by Usha to executive committee members. The council will also discuss the scope of Usha's powers under the IOA Constitution and consider reporting her conduct to the IOA Ethics Commission.The meeting will also address issues related to the recent Paris Olympics, including sponsorship details, additional expenses incurred, and the accreditation process. The selection of Sportsperson of Outstanding Merit (SOM) in November 2022 and their participation in IOA elections will also be discussed.The meeting was called by 12 council members, including senior vice president Ajay Patel, vice-president Rajalaxmi Singh Deo, and former Olympic medallist Gagan Narang. Notably, boxer M C Mary Kom and table tennis player A Sharath Kamal, who are on the IOA athletes commission, did not sign the document.The growing tensions between Usha and Yadav stem from a show cause notice issued by Usha to Yadav, challenging his eligibility to hold the post of treasurer. Yadav has threatened legal action against Usha for "defaming" his image.The IOA meeting is expected to be heated, with members likely to express their concerns and seek clarification on various issues. The outcome of the meeting could have significant implications for the future of the IOA and its leadership.