Government working towards resolving IHF-HI dispute: Ajay Maken

NEW DELHI: The government is working with the Indian Olympic Association, Indian Hockey Federation and Hockey India to facilitate a settlement that is acceptable to both the warring factions — IHF and HI, Sports Minister Ajay Maken on Tuesday informed the Lok Sabha.

“The controversy/infighting in hockey, inter-alia, relates to recognition from the concerned International Federation and the Indian Olympic Association; merger of the two bodies; holding of fair proper elections; and holding of regular National Championships,” Maken said in a written reply to a question by Rajaiah Siricilla and Nalin Kumar Kateel.

The minister stated that in view of the interim orders of the Supreme Court and after a series of meetings, IHF and HI came to a settlement on July 25 last year.

“However, due to opposition from the IOA and the IHF, the said settlement could not be implemented. Besides, both IHF and HI have sought grant of recognition.

“Further, in order to resolve the matter, meetings were again held in September 2011 and October 2011 with IOA, IHF and HI wherein IHF indicated that they would submit a fresh proposal for settlement,” said Maken.

The minister further said that the IHF submitted a proposal on November 7, 2011 suggesting accommodating 20 per cent of the members of executive committee of HI in the executive committee of the IHF and holding of fresh elections of IHF.

“The suggestions of IHF have been sent to IOA and they have been requested to call a meeting with IHF and HI and discuss the matter and indicate outcome thereof to the Government for further necessary action and apprising the Hon’ble Supreme Court,” said Maken.

He said the government has spent Rs 16.36 crores on the promotion of Hockey during the current financial year (upto November 2011) for the various aspects of the game including foreign exposure, foreign coaches, boarding, lodging and preparation of the national team for Olympics, 2012.