IOA Acknowledges New Leadership of IGU Following Controversial Elections
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New Delhi, Dec 31 (NationPress) The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has officially acknowledged the newly-elected Governing Council of the Indian Golf Union (IGU) after a contentious election process. The recognized office-bearers of the IGU Governing Council are Harish Kumar Shetty (President), Basant Kumar Repswal (Secretary General), and Manoj Joshi (Honorary Treasurer).
The IOA's acknowledgment follows a comprehensive investigation into two separate Annual General Meetings (AGMs) and elections held on December 15 at different venues in New Delhi.
The dispute arose when it was reported that two parallel elections had been held for the IGU's Governing Council. While one election was overseen by Justice O.P. Garg (Retd.), the other was allegedly conducted by a different faction led by Brijinder Singh. Both factions claimed to be legitimate, leading to confusion within the golfing community.
The IOA received two important communications: a letter from IGU officials dated December 15 and a letter from Brijinder Singh directed to the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, detailing the second election conducted on the same day.
After a thorough review of the documents, reports, and procedural compliance of the two elections, the IOA determined that the AGM and election managed by Justice O.P. Garg (Retd.) were legitimate. The IOA provided several justifications for this determination.
Justice O.P. Garg (Retd.), who was officially appointed as the Returning Officer, did not resign from his position, contradicting claims made by the opposing faction. This fact established his authority to oversee the elections.
The AGM and election conducted by Justice Garg complied with Article 22 of the IGU's constitution, which outlines quorum requirements. The election involved participation from 21 member units represented by 39 attendees. Additionally, the IOA received detailed documentation, including an attendance sheet signed by all participants, confirming the validity of the process.
Based on these conclusions, the IOA officially recognized the election results announced by Justice Garg and endorsed the leadership of the newly-elected Governing Council of the IGU.
In her correspondence to the IGU, IOA President P.T. Usha congratulated the newly-elected Governing Council, expressing confidence in their capacity to promote golf in India while adhering to the principles of the Olympic movement. "We wish you all the very best and hope that the new Governing Council of the Indian Golf Union shall do its utmost to promote the sport in India, while upholding the Olympic values," stated Usha.
