Narinder Batra on Wednesday has introduced that he’s not going to run for an additional time period as President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
“At a time when world hockey is going through an essential development phase, with the promotion of Hockey5s, the creation of a new competition this year – the FIH Hockey Nations Cup – and the launch of fan-engaging platforms and activities, my role as President of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) requires more time for all these activities,” Batra stated in an announcement.
“Consequently, I’ve decided to not run for a further term as President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA),” he added.
Batra is beneath the scanner for allegedly diverting funds to the tune of Rs 35 crore for private functions.
Batra, who’s the International Hockey Federation chief, is a former secretary-general and president of Hockey India, and has headed the IOA since 2017.
The Olympic physique’s elections had been due final December however they might not be held as per schedule following a plea within the Delhi High Court, difficult its constituent. It is alleged that it’s not in sync with the National Sports Code and the International Olympic Committee constitution.
“I feel that the time has come for me to leave this role to someone coming with a fresh mind and new ideas to take Indian sports to much much greater heights and also go all out to work to get 2036 Summer Olympics in India,”stated Batra.
“It’s been a privilege and an incredible honour to serve in my capability as President of IOA all through my time period, I’ve been guided by one objective solely: the great and the betterment of Indian sport.
“At this stage, I’d like to thank all those who’ve supported me in the last 4 years. And I wish my successor and the whole sports family in India every success in the future!”