Two High Courts stay election process in Hockey India

After the Bombay High Court, the Delhi High Court today stayed the election process in Hockey India (HI) following failure of the Central government to clarify the legal position regarding HI and the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF).

Compounding the problems for Hockey India, the Bombay High Court earlier today had stayed the HI elections for three weeks on a petition filed by Mumbai Hockey Association.

Contrary to the guidelines for recognition of sports federation, the Centre had told the Delhi High Court that both the HI and IHF were recognised bodies for the sport.

Pointing out the violation of the guidelines, which says that there can be only one recognised body for the sport, Justice S Murlidhar said, "This court is left with no option but to stay the election process till further orders."

Hockey India, which has the recognition of the International Hockey Federation (FIH), need to complete its election process by the world body stipulated deadline of July 31, failing which India would not be allowed from participating in international tournaments.