PANAJI
The Bombay High Court at Goa has disposed of a writ petition filed by former cricketer Hemant Bhikoo Pai Angle, directing the Goa Cricket Association (GCA) to initiate the process of appointing an Ombudsman within 15 days.
A division bench comprising Justices M S Karnik and Nivedita P Mehta heard the matter, which primarily sought the enforcement of Rule 21 of the GCA Constitution regarding the appointment of an Ombudsman.
The court refrained from intervening in any internal disputes among the managing committee members but noted submissions from legal representatives on both sides. Advocate Abhijit Gosavi, appearing for the GCA President, assured the court that a notice for a special general body meeting would be issued within 15 days to facilitate the Ombudsman’s appointment.
The court directed the GCA President to take the necessary steps for the appointment, ensuring compliance with the association's Constitution and Memorandum.
Reacting to the court's ruling, petitioner Hemant Angle expressed satisfaction, stating: "After a long legal fight, I have now compelled the GCA to convene an extraordinary general meeting to select the Ombudsman, whose tenure had expired."
He highlighted that there were previously five cases before the Ombudsman challenging the actions of the GCA, with four verdicts going against the association. "My own case, concerning the improper selection process of coaches, was partially in my favour, but the GCA moved the High Court seeking relief," Angle said.
"The High Court then directed both parties to return to the Ombudsman. Now there is a glimmer of hope that justice shall be done," Angle remarked.
