Gujarat High Court Bars Kiran More and Three Others from BCA Elections
Synopsis
In a decisive ruling, the Gujarat High Court disqualified former cricketer Kiran More and three others from participating in the Baroda Cricket Association elections, citing violations of eligibility norms. This landmark decision reshapes the association's leadership landscape.
Key Takeaways
Kiran More and three others disqualified from BCA elections.
Ruling based on violation of eligibility norms.
Candidates had exceeded maximum allowed tenure.
Interim protection granted for appeal process.
Current BCA committee continues in an acting role.
Ahmedabad, March 16 (NationPress) - The Gujarat High Court ruled on Monday that Kiran More, a former Indian cricket player, along with three others, is disqualified from running in the elections for the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA). This decision invalidates the returning officer's previous acceptance of their nominations.
The court's decision followed a petition from local residents Pradipsinh Solanki and Ramchandra Prajapati, who contested the eligibility of four candidates: More, Amul Jikar, Anant Indulkar, and Amar Patiwala.
The petitioners included the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Baroda Cricket Association as respondents in the case.
After thorough consideration, the single-judge bench determined that the nominations were accepted in contradiction to the eligibility criteria established for cricket association officials.
As a result, the returning officer's approval was overturned, rendering the four candidates ineligible for significant positions within the BCA, including president, secretary, and treasurer.
The claimants asserted that the candidates had exceeded the maximum tenure allowed by the governance rules dictated by the Supreme Court of India.
According to these regulations, anyone who has served a cumulative nine years must resign and undergo a three-year cooling-off period after two consecutive terms before reapplying.
Upholding this argument, the High Court found that these provisions were violated, leading to the rejection of the nomination forms.
The court instructed the election officer to announce the results of the BCA elections promptly.
However, upon the request of the defendants, the court provided a two-week interim stay, allowing the disqualified candidates time to appeal the decision to a division bench of the High Court.
In the meantime, the current BCA committee will maintain its temporary administrative functions but will not engage in any significant policy decisions until the results are officially released.
The BCA elections took place on February 15, with 1,430 out of approximately 1,900 eligible members casting their votes.
The primary contest was between the Royal Satyamev Jayate group, linked to Samarjitsinh Gaekwad, and the Revival Group.
The four disqualified candidates are poised to appeal the single-judge ruling before a division bench of the Gujarat High Court.
Until further notice, the current BCA committee will continue to operate in an acting capacity.
Point of View
The Gujarat High Court's ruling underscores the importance of adhering to established governance norms within sports associations. By disqualifying Kiran More and others, the court reaffirms its commitment to maintaining the integrity of cricket administration in India.
NationPress
5 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the basis for the disqualification of Kiran More?
Kiran More and three others were disqualified for not meeting eligibility criteria, specifically due to exceeding the maximum tenure allowed under governance rules.
What are the implications of this ruling for the BCA?
The ruling may lead to changes in the BCA's leadership and governance practices, ensuring compliance with eligibility norms.
Can the disqualified candidates appeal the decision?
Yes, the court granted a two-week interim stay for the candidates to appeal the decision before a division bench.
What was the voter turnout for the BCA elections?
The elections saw 1,430 out of approximately 1,900 eligible voters participating.
Who were the main contenders in the BCA elections?
The primary contest was between the Royal Satyamev Jayate group and the Revival Group.
