Srinagar, August 17(KNB): The 4th Additional District Judge, Srinagar, Gowhar Majid Dalal, has directed the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council (JKSC) to conduct elections for the Jammu and Kashmir Football Association (JKFA) as soon as possible. The court has explicitly ruled that no individual shall act as the Chairman of JKFA in any capacity or forum until the upcoming elections are held.
The JKFA has clarified that misinformation is being spread on social media about the court’s verdict. The court has entrusted Professor B.A Shah and Nazir Ahmad Andrabi to take immediate steps to conduct elections for the office bearers of the Association.
The court has directed the JKSC to assist and facilitate Professor B.A Shah and Mr. Nazir Andrabi in the election process within the scope of their authority as per the rules. The election process must adhere to the National Sports Code of the Government and the model election guidelines.
The court has directed the JK Sports Council to make necessary arrangements for the elections of JKFA and to submit a report to the court in that behalf before the next date of hearing on October 11, 2024. Professor B.A Shah and Mr. Nazir Ahmad Andrabi have been granted the liberty to approach the court at any time for assistance or clarification as required.
Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has filed an FIR against former JKFA officials for misappropriation of funds to the tune of Rs 45 lakh. The ACB has found that fake bills were raised for refreshments, and funds were drawn without ensuring on-ground utilization.
The ACB registered a case vide FIR No 30/22 under Section 5(1) (c), 5(1) (d) read with Section 5(2) of the JK PC Act Svt 2006 and Section 465, 467, 468, 471, and 120-B of the Ranbir Penal Code in Police Station ACB SBG Srinagar on July 22 against JKFA officials including its president Zamir Thakur, treasurer S S Bunty, chief executive S A Hameed, and member Fayaz Ahmad besides others.
People and football enthusiasts have appealed to the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Secretary to take strong and lawful action against the former JKFA officials who have looted the state exchequer for personal benefits. They have also requested an investigation into the Baby League, Mufti Memorial, Khelo India, and other government officials and employees who have abused and trolled junior national football girls from Jammu and Kashmir.(KNB)