IOA polls: No clarity over nominations

While there’s a general consensus over the candidatures of Abhay Singh Chautala and Randhir Singh for the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) elections, the debate over the posts of secretary-general and treasurer continues.

DNA has learnt that Lalit Bhanot is likely to file his nomination papers on Friday, whereas the Randhir Singh group has almost finalised to pit Volleyball Federation of India secretary K Murugan against Bhanot. This appears to be done to ensure support of south Indian states in order to challenge Chautala, who is backed by Suresh Kalmadi.

Meanwhile, the three-member election panel comprising former chief election commissioner SY Qureshi, former chief justice of Kerala high court
VK Bali and retired justice JD Kapur of Delhi high court is yet to decide the eligibility of those elected against the provisions of the new sports code.

"The issue related to someone’s eligibility was not discussed in the panel’s meeting. The three-member panel is formed to oversee that elections are held as per the rules and the electoral roll prepared by IOA," justice Bali told DNA. "The panel can only deliberate on matters of any objections whatsoever, if at all that comes from any individual. But let it come first."