By Mail Today Correspondent in New Delhi

THE much- awaited meeting of Hockey India in the Capital on Thursday to sort out the contentious affiliation problem was not held.

According to Hockey India sources, some of the officials were ‘ out of station or on leave’, thereby necessitating postponement of the meeting to next week.

As of now, it is believed 21 out of the 33 erstwhile units have been recognised by Hockey India. In the case of prominent states like Delhi, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Hyderabad, Bhopal and a few more units, things have not been sorted out.

Hockey India insists that in states where more than one unit is in place, a merger should take place. However, Maharashtra has refused to accept it, saying that the Maharashtra, Vidharbha and Mumbai associations will remain independent.

Punjab is also surprised why it is being kept out. In fact, on Thursday, the buzz was that some of the units which have not yet received their affiliation are contemplating legal action.

“ We cannot be kept hanging like this. If nothing positive emerges from the Hockey India elections slated for January 29, all the associations that have not been given recognition will go to the court,” said a prominent association member.

For its part, the sports ministry reiterated that they will ensure a democratic process is in place for elections to be held. Things will become clear after the Christmas break.