The threat of a FIFA suspension for Indian football appeared real on Tuesday as the country’s commercial partners of the sport’s governing body filed a complaint with the Supreme Court regarding problematic provisions in the draught constitution.
AIFF crisis intensifies as FSDL approaches the Supreme Court
The All India Football Federation (AIFF), which manages the Indian Super League (ISL), and numerous state associations have each submitted a separate intervention application to the Supreme Court. The main point of contention is which of the I-League and ISL will continue to be the top-tier league in the nation.
The SC-appointed Committee of Administrators (COA), according to the FSDL’s application, “failed” to examine its objections and “rejected” some suggestions.
On Thursday, there will be a hearing in this case.
After the SC dismissed the office bearers led by Praful Patel, a FIFA-AFC team visited the nation last month to assess the situation and imposed stringent deadlines for holding elections by September 15.
It is stated in the provision pertaining to the top men’s league in the nation that the AIFF will oversee the league and implement promotion and relegation.
The clause clearly referred to the AIFF-managed I-League as the top league in the nation, despite not being stated in as many words. This did not sit well with FSDL because its product, the ISL, was recognised by the Asian Football Confederation in October 2019 as the top-tier league, which did not sit well with FSDL (AFC).
There is no promotion or relegation in the ISL.
In a previous letter to the FIFA, the state associations, represented by a seven-member panel, complained that some articles in the COA’s final draught constitution were unfair and irrational.
Goa supported the I-League as the top league during a meeting between the COA and state FAs because representatives Joaquim Alemao and Valanka Alemao represent I-League club Churchill Brothers.
The majority of the other state units were against the draft’s provision giving I-League priority over ISL.
With the FSDL and state units objecting to more than 20 points, there is a strong probability that FIFA may ban the nation from international competition in football.
For the privilege and licence to operate the ISL, the FSDL pays Rs 55 crore each year.