New Delhi: The internal differences within Hockey India have intensified ahead of the federation’s proposed emergency Executive Board meeting on September 18, with President Dilip Tirkey disputing the authority of secretary Bhola Nath Singh to convene the gathering.
The meeting is expected to address several key issues, including the future structure of the Hockey India League (HIL), upcoming federation elections, the legal notice issued to Director General Cdr R K Srivastava and preparations for major international events.
The latest dispute follows the controversy over the change in the colour of the Indian teams’ jerseys from blue to saffron during the recently concluded FIH World Cup. Tirkey had said the change was made without his knowledge or the approval of the Executive Board.
He subsequently issued a show-cause notice to Srivastava, stripped him of his powers and listed eight allegations against him. The jersey issue was among the prominent charges. Srivastava has been given four weeks to respond.
Bhola Nath subsequently circulated a notice for the 119th Emergent Executive Board Meeting. Tirkey, however, objected to the move, citing Hockey India’s bye-laws.
According to Tirkey, a provision approved in June states that only the President has the authority to call an emergency meeting. He also maintained that no Executive Board meeting should take place until the Director General submits his explanation.
Bhola Nath has given a different account, saying he spoke to Tirkey about resolving the federation’s issues and that the President had agreed to the meeting after asking for its agenda.
Hockey India League Restructure Takes Centre Stage
One of the major items on the agenda is the restructuring of the Hockey India League for both men and women.
The proposed model includes creating a separate HIL company, with Hockey India and franchise owners holding equity in a 40:60 arrangement. The plan also calls for a new Governing Council comprising Hockey India representatives and members nominated by the franchises.
The issue gained urgency after Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya met Tirkey and HIL franchise owners. A five-member panel has been tasked with preparing a governance and financial roadmap for the league.
Franchise owners have sought greater involvement in decision-making, while the proposed Governing Council would give them representation in the administration of the competition.
Elections And Other Issues On Agenda
The meeting is also expected to discuss the schedule for Hockey India elections and the appointment of an Electoral Officer. The federation’s financial statements for 2025-26 are also listed for consideration.
Other agenda items include preparations for the men’s and women’s Asian Champions Trophy events in Punjab and Bhopal.
The legal notice issued to Srivastava is also set to be discussed, including allegations concerning the disclosure of confidential Hockey India information through the media and social media.
With the Asian Games approaching, the proposed meeting is expected to become an important test of whether Hockey India can resolve its internal differences while addressing the governance and financial issues surrounding its flagship league.
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