The appeal addressed to IOC president Kirsty Coventry calls for the matter to be reviewed by the global body's Ethics Commission or Ethics and Compliance Office. It cites model code violations, such as incumbent committee members using WhatsApp messages to promote specific candidate panels and track voter participation. Furthermore, the petition notes that returning officer Sanjay K. Srivastava left four formal representations unacknowledged during the voting process. Addressing these procedural issues is presented as critical for aligning domestic operations with the Olympic Charter.
Key points
The appeal asks the IOC Ethics Commission to verify whether external or governmental inte…: The appeal asks the IOC Ethics Commission to verify whether external or governmental interference influenced the secret ballot process.
The challenge focuses on safeguarding IOA autonomy and governance standards rather than o…: The challenge focuses on safeguarding IOA autonomy and governance standards rather than overturning Usha's fifth-place finish.
Resolving domestic leadership and compliance issues is highlighted as vital for India's a…: Resolving domestic leadership and compliance issues is highlighted as vital for India's ambition to host the 2036 Olympic Games.
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NEW DELHI: Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president Usha has urged International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Kirsty Coventry for an independent examination of the IOA’s controversial Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOM) elections.
In a confidential three-page complaint dated Nov 9, accessed exclusively by TOI, Usha raises serious concerns about the elections, including allegations of incumbent officials canvassing for candidates, messages seeking confirmation of voters’ participation and even references to the sports ministry in communications surrounding a secret ballot.
In the letter, Usha has also questioned the handling of her four representations by returning officer (RO) Sanjay K. Srivastava and asked the IOC to ascertain whether any govt or external influence was exerted during the electoral process.
The letter comes after Usha’s own electoral setback, with the IOA president finishing fifth with 40 votes in a six-way contest for four women’s SOM positions. Anju Bobby George topped the poll with 53 votes, followed by Rani Rampal (50), Dola Banerjee (45) and Saina Nehwal (43). Anitha Pauldurai secured six.
In her letter, Usha has clarified that her complaint is not intended to challenge…
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