Post by : Maya Rahman

In a pivotal move to reform football management in India, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has enacted a ban on dual positions following a directive from the Supreme Court. This crucial change comes as a resolution to an ongoing issue that has lingered since 2017. The regulation prohibits any executive committee member of AIFF from holding dual posts in a state association, aimed at avoiding conflicts of interest and promoting a transparent governing body.

Acting upon the Supreme Court’s order dated October 15, the AIFF officially integrated Articles 25.3(c) and 25.3(d) of its revised constitution during a virtual Special General Meeting (SGM). These articles explicitly state that no official can maintain dual roles in both national and state football organizations. This adjustment aligns the federation’s constitution with the recommendations made by Justice (Retd) L. Nageswara Rao, who has advised on the reforms needed in Indian football management.

However, for the time being, the current AIFF administration, led by president Kalyan Chaubey, will not face immediate consequences from this rule. Existing executives will remain unaffected until their term concludes in September 2026. This temporary measure was recognized by the Supreme Court, which acknowledged that conducting fresh elections with only a year left in the term would be impractical.

The implementation of these articles marks the resolution of an issue that has spanned nearly a decade. The AIFF expressed appreciation to all contributors and stakeholders who aided this process. The federation had earlier executed most aspects of the constitution approved by the Supreme Court on October 12, delaying the adoption of Articles 23.3 and 25.3(c) and (d) to seek further clarity. The Supreme Court's ruling on October 15 provided the essential guidance for full enforcement.

This dual-post ban has been a contentious topic as it necessitated a balance between Supreme Court directives and FIFA/AFC regulations, alongside the existing leadership's concerns. With the official adoption of these articles, AIFF's governance structure is now compliant with both national and international standards, fostering transparency in the governance of Indian football.

This reform is anticipated to enhance decision-making and minimize conflicts within AIFF. By restricting officials from holding multiple roles, the federation seeks to create a more professional, accountable, and transparent environment. The decision is a reaffirmation of Indian football authorities' commitment to modern governance practices and aligns with the international benchmarks set by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation.

The AIFF’s decision signifies a landmark moment in the governance of Indian football. With the dual-post ban now effective, the federation is better positioned to ensure integrity, fairness, and accountability in its operations. This reform conveys a strong message to all stakeholders regarding the importance of clean and professional management, paving the way for the continuous growth and advancement of football in India.

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