THE ALL INDIA Football Federation (AIFF) on Monday formally adopted Article 25.3 (c) and (d) of the Constitution, as directed by the Supreme Court, pursuant to its order dated October 15.
According to Article 25.3 (c) and (d), an office bearer in the executive committee of the AIFF cannot hold a position as an office bearer in a member/state association.
“In our judgment, we permitted the present executive to continue till the end of its term in order to ensure that there is minimal disruption to the already delayed sporting events,” the SC said in its October 15 order after the AIFF sought clarification on the two contentious articles — Article 23.3, and Article 25.3 (c) and 25.3 (d), PTI reports.
“In the same line, and to subserve the same purpose, we direct AIFF to adopt Articles 25.3 (c) and (d) within three weeks from today. We are, therefore, of the opinion that these Articles shall be retained. Articles 25.3 (c) and 25.3 (d) will, however, come into effect after the present executive demits office,” the SC Bench of Justices P S Narasimha and Joymalya Bagchi had stated.
The apex court, however, in its order, had said that the AIFF need not adopt Article 23.3 of the draft constitution relating to the requirement of SC nod for any amendment.
The AIFF constitution case has been in the apex court since 2017, when the SC directed formulation of a new constitution, one that was submitted by former Justice (Retd.) L. Nageswara Rao in 2023.
Indian football’s governing body said in its statement on Monday, “The AIFF Constitution is now in accordance with the directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India and the framework recommended by Justice (Retd) L Nageswara Rao. With this, a matter pending since 2017 stands conclusively resolved.”
“The AlFF expresses its sincere appreciation and gratitude to all stakeholders and contributors whose time, effort, and cooperation were integral to the successful completion of this process. In alignment with the statutes of FIFA and the AFC, the AIFF remains committed to its mandate to develop, govern, and promote football across India,” it added.
