Former AIFF head likely behind FIFA's ban on India

NEW DELHI: There are indications that former AIFF President Praful Patel has hatched a conspiracy that resulted in India's FIFA ban. Praful Patel had convened a meeting of the state football association officials after the Supreme Court ordered his removal. In this meeting, it is indicated that Patel had instructed to send a complaint to FIFA against court interference. The AIFF's governing body had earlier alleged that FIFA expressed concern over the decision to hold the World Cup because of Praful Patel's interference. FIFA's current action confirms this allegation by the governing body.

FIFA will not take such action against India without the knowledge of Praful Patel, who is also a member of the FIFA Council. In the press release sent by FIFA to the media, it is said that the decision to ban India was taken unanimously. That means even Praful Patel has not spoken against this decision against India in the FIFA Council.

All this points to power-hungry elder Praful Patel behind FIFA's decision to ban India. Former Union Minister and NCP leader Praful Patel, who has been the head of AIFF for many years, was ousted from that position by the Supreme Court. The interim governing body has also been appointed to conduct the election of the new governing body by the 18th of this month. The committee comprises former Supreme Court judge Anil R Dave, former Chief Election Commissioner SY Qureshi and former Indian football team captain Bhaskar Ganguly. FIFA intervened when they prepared the voter list.

Days ago, the AIFF Interim Committee filed a contempt of court petition against Praful Patel in the Supreme Court. The petition was filed against eight people including Praful Patel and Delhi Football Association President Shaji Prabhakaran. The petition was alleging that Praful Patel had obstructed the functioning of the interim administrative committee constituted by the Supreme Court.