The Indian Golf Union (IGU) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) are in a conflict over the appointment of a Returning Officer (RO) for the upcoming IGU elections, scheduled for December 15.
Disagreement Over Appointment
The IGU recently announced that retired Sikkim High Court judge Permod Kohli would replace Justice (retd) OP Garg as the RO. In response, the IOA sent letters to both Kohli and the IGU, instructing them to conduct the elections under the supervision of Justice Garg.
The Controversy Unfolds
The trouble began after Justice Garg suspended five army-controlled State Golf Associations (SGAs) on November 25. These associations – from Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Nagaland, and Sikkim – failed to submit the required documents. Garg reversed the suspension within 24 hours. Later, the IGU announced the indefinite postponement of the elections, citing Garg’s resignation. However, it was later revealed that Justice Garg had not resigned.
IOA’s Response
On November 30, IOA president PT Usha stated that Justice Garg remained the RO. She emphasized, “As late as 30th November 2024, Mr Justice (Retd.) OP Garg has made it amply clear that he continues to be the Returning Officer of the ongoing election process.” Usha also questioned why the IGU appointed a second RO for the same elections.
Additionally, Usha raised concerns about Kohli’s dual role. As the chairperson of the IOA’s Arbitration Commission, Kohli accepting the IGU RO role might create a conflict of interest. Usha urged the IGU to follow good governance principles and the IOC Charter, warning that an Ad-Hoc Committee might have to step in if the situation worsens.
Election Schedule
Despite the dispute, the election timeline remains tight. The final list of nominations is due by December 5. The final list of candidates, after scrutiny and withdrawals, must be prepared by December 10. The elections are set to take place on December 15.