HI presents case to FIH today

MANUJA VEERAPPA

With the threat of derecognition looming large and India’s Olympic dream at stake, Hockey India secretary Narendra Batra’s presence at the FIH executive board meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland, on Saturday is of huge relevance.

With the establishment divided into two factions — the Indian Hockey Federation and Hockey India, and only the latter being recongnised by the international body — India’s internal wrangles have put the future of the sport at risk.

The fact that the FIH did not approve of the formation of the joint executive board and working committee between the two faction has further contributed to the unrest.

Speaking to this newspaper prior to his departure, Batra who will present Hockey India’s case against the de-recognition notice slapped by FIH said, “We have replied to the de-recognition, which was first served in September. But we got another notice last month and have been asked to appear in person.” Having already pulled out the Champions Trophy scheduled for December and allotting it to New Zealand, the FIH has proved that it hasn’t been issuing empty threats.

“Given the fact that the Champions Trophy was moved out, we cannot take the FIH notice lightly. “I have discussed the issue with the sports ministry and the Indian Olympic Association. I want to go there and ensure that we are not shunted out of the system and that the Olympic qualifier stay in India,” said Batra.

Ahe added, “I will make it very clear to the FIH that we have nothing to do with IHF and the arrangement which was made earlier has been called off. We are the body which is recongnised by the Indian Olympic Association and it is Hockey India which is selecting the teams. I’m hoping I’m able to convince the FH board,” added Batra.

With the FIH executive board also deciding on the schedule of the qualifiers, India’s already fading Olympic dream remain on tenterhooks.