Hyderabad Cricket Association Sees Leadership Change After Ombudsman's Ruling
In a significant development for Hyderabad's cricketing community, the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) has a new president following a decisive order from the ombudsman. Retired Chief Justice Suresh Kumar Kait declared Amarnath as the legitimate president on Monday, overturning the previous election result that had seen A Jagan Mohan Rao win by a single vote.
Ombudsman Cites Legal Grounds for Invalidating Election
The 12-page order, addressed to HCA's acting president Sardar Daljeet Singh, detailed why Jagan Mohan Rao's election was deemed invalid. Justice Kait emphasized that "the institution cannot be put on hold" and "the post of the president can't be kept vacant for a longer period." This ruling comes amidst Jagan Mohan Rao's ongoing legal troubles, including charges of forgery and corruption for which he is currently out on bail.
The ombudsman's decision was based on a critical examination of the election process held on October 20, 2023. While Jagan Mohan Rao secured 63 votes and Amarnath received 62, the validity of Jagan's nomination was called into question. Amarnath had contested the election, arguing that Jagan Mohan Rao contested from the Sri Chakra Cricket Club, which had previously operated as the Gowlipura Cricket Club.
Technical Irregularities Lead to Overturned Result
After reviewing records, submissions, and applicable legal principles, Justice Kait concluded that the Sri Chakra Cricket Club did not legally exist on the election date. The purported name change from Gowlipura Cricket Club to Sri Chakra Cricket Club was not carried out in compliance with the law, rendering the club's status invalid.
Consequently, the acceptance of nomination papers on behalf of this non-existent entity was declared invalid, making Jagan Mohan Rao's election illegal and unsustainable. The ombudsman stated, "Accordingly, I hereby declare the petitioner (Amarnath) as President of Respondent 1 HCA."
Immediate Implementation and Future Directions
The order directs the HCA to allow Amarnath to take charge as president within a week, and he is to continue in the position for the remaining term. Amarnath confirmed that he has already assumed the role, stating, "I have filed a petition with the ombudsman and just prevailed. I have taken charge as the president today." He expressed his commitment to working for the betterment of cricket in Hyderabad.
This ruling not only resolves the immediate leadership vacuum but also underscores the importance of adherence to legal and procedural norms in sports administration. The Hyderabad Cricket Association can now look forward to stabilized governance under its newly declared president.
