26 septtember 2024 : New Delhi: PT Usha, the president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), has issued a notice to joint-secretary Kalyan Chaubey for granting recognition to the Taekwondo Federation of India (TFI) without the necessary approval from the IOA general body.
In her letter, Usha emphasized that granting membership or affiliation to any sports federation is strictly the responsibility of the IOA’s general body. She stated that neither the Executive Committee (EC), the acting CEO, the president, nor any other individual has the authority to unilaterally recognize or affiliate a sports body without explicit general body approval. This process is crucial for ensuring good governance and adherence to IOA guidelines.
Usha highlighted that before recommending any affiliation applications, the IOA must ensure that the federation is affiliated with both the world and Asian governing bodies of the sport. She pointed out that no discussions on this matter had taken place in any EC meetings, risking significant legal and reputational consequences for the IOA.
She referenced a November 20, 2022, order by retired Justice L. Nageswara Rao, which revoked TFI’s right to participate in IOA elections due to its lack of recognition from the world governing body of Taekwondo. Usha accused Chaubey of concealing this subsequent Supreme Court order and mentioned that multiple taekwondo federations are currently in dispute regarding recognition.
Usha has demanded an explanation from Chaubey within seven days on why disciplinary action should not be taken against him for this breach of authority and violation of IOA regulations.
This development comes just before an important executive committee meeting of the IOA, where members, including Chaubey, are expected to discuss the conduct of President Usha and report her to the Ethics Commission of the IOA. These members have raised concerns about Usha’s election as IOA president, citing provisions in the constitution, and have accused her of making unilateral decisions that bypass the EC and violate the constitution.