The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha is currently embroiled in a significant internal conflict with several executive council (EC) members attempting to undermine her authority. This dispute has intensified with the EC’s recent actions, including the cancellation of appointments and issuing of termination notices without her consent.
The conflict came to light publicly when a notice was posted at the IOA headquarters last Friday by nine EC members. This notice barred “unauthorised persons” from entering, specifically targeting two of Usha’s recent appointees. The EC also declared the appointment of Raghuram Iyer as IOA CEO and the termination of Ajay Narang as executive assistant to the president as null and void, moves Usha has vehemently disputed.
In her response, Usha described the termination letter served to Narang as “absolute nullity,” arguing that such administrative decisions fall outside the council’s jurisdiction. She stressed the need for unity within the IOA, especially as the Paris Olympics approach, and admonished the EC members for exceeding their powers and violating the IOA constitution.
Usha’s position is that the appointments of Iyer and Narang were fully within her rights as president, and she has expressed full confidence in their capabilities. Despite the controversy, both appointees have continued their roles, with Usha adjusting the initially agreed remuneration for the CEO following budgetary concerns raised by the EC.
This internal strife within the IOA not only threatens its administrative stability but also raises concerns about potential international repercussions, including intervention by the International Olympic Committee. Usha has called on the EC members to cease their defiant actions and focus on supporting India’s athletes and the broader Olympic movement.
