NEW DELHI: With AITA honorary life president Anil Khanna pulling out of the race, the decks appear to be cleared for International Hockey Federation president Narinder Batra for taking charge as president of the Indian Olympic Association.
Khanna, the only other contender, withdrew from the race on Thursday, after the last date for withdrawal of candidature had lapsed on December 3. The polls will be held during the IOA Annual General body Meeting (AGM) on December 14. The third contender for the post, Weightlifting Federation of India president Birendra Prasad Baishya, has already withdrawn from the race.
“In order to keep the IOA family united and to ensure that common friends are not put in a difficult situation while deciding who to vote for, I have decided to withdraw my candidature as president of IOA from the current election in favour of Dr. Narinder Dhruv Batra,” Khanna wrote in his letter, the Hindu reports.
“IOA has been one family so far, and the election this year is is creating division. I have had an opportunity of discussing with many of you over the last eight days and also with some of our more experienced members who have led the IOA so far. Many do not want a division as they enjoy a warm relationship with both sides and find themselves in a difficult situation to finally decide whom to vote for,” he added.
Batra responded by saying, “It is important for IOA to remain united for the betterment of Indian sports. I welcome the decision and hope to do my best for further making the IOA a vibrant organisation,” the Hindu says. Batra will continue as FIH president after elevation to the head of a National Olympic Committee.
Image courtesy: PTI
