Football enthusiasts in Goa and the rest of India were shocked when the world governing body of football, FIFA, suspended the All India Football Federation (AIFF), citing reasons of "undue influence from third parties." The decision deals an instant blow to football and comes at a time when Goa, along with Bhubaneshwar and Mumbai, were gearing up to host the women's U-17 World Cup from October 11-30 this year.
The ban has not only upset hosting plans of the premier world event but has also closed doors for Indian players and teams with international fixtures lined up, besides throwing a question over the international player registrations for ISL. The FIFA ban would also mean that no Indian team can participate in international matches. With that, even ATK Mohun Bhagan's chance of playing in the inter-zonal semifinals of the AFC Cup in September looks doubtful. An immediate fallout would be felt on Indian outfit Gokulam Kerala which was to participate in the Asian Women's Club Championship next week. Also, all international friendlies, including the upcoming matches against Singapore and Vietnam, will have to be canceled for now because of the development.
The suspension is unfortunate and exposes the chinks in the sports administration and the deep-rooted links of those at the helm, links that could even disrupt any given system. It is more like India scoring a self-goal. Football has become a culprit here because sports bodies in the country continue to be influenced and governed by mighty political figures instead of sports icons. FIFA has called out an infringement, and, sadly, the fallout is on players, coaches and allied staff, and football lovers who not only revere the sport but have also remained heavily invested in it, devoting their time, energies, and monies.
It was on May 18 that the Supreme Court ruled against AIFF President Praful Patel and the executive committee, asking them to step down, and a 3-member Committee of Administrators (CoA) was put at the helm. It was on August 6 that FIFA had threatened to suspend the AIFF warning over "third-party influence," following which the CoA had moved the Supreme Court with a contempt petition against Patel. The former president has been accused of interfering with the administration of justice.
The ban was on the horizon, yet the situation could not be salvaged. This is nothing short of betrayal because when the apex court directives are clear, one cannot expect any parallel body or group of individuals to decide on the course, no matter the authority or position one wields outside the domain. It's time "manipulation" in sports administration must stop.
Our shortcomings and power plays have resonated across the global football fraternity so loudly that it has become a cruel joke on those devoutly pursuing the sport. The FIFA ruling is not only a blemish on the AIFF and our football but also a slap against those trying to play sneaky politics. The development has left a bitter taste at a time when the nation is basking in the glory of the Commonwealth games, and our political leaders continue to make monumental promises.
