In a significant turn of events within the Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), Sunil Sethi, a member of the Sub-Committee and legally experienced advocate, has resigned. His resignation follows serious allegations regarding ‘back-dated orders’ issued by the former Ombudsman. Sethi has been instrumental in the Sub-Committee since 2021, and he formally addressed his resignation to Mithun Manhas, the President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
This resignation emerges amidst an urgent backdrop, especially after the Supreme Court’s directive on 27 October, which mandated that JKCA elections must be organized within 12 weeks, overseen by Achal Kumar Joti, the former Chief Election Commissioner. The Supreme Court’s intervention signals a crucial step towards restoring order and governance within the JKCA.
Sethi outlined the troubling circumstances behind his decision in his resignation letter. He expressed concerns about the procedural irregularities related to the elections. He stated, “As the Supreme Court has directed the holding of elections for JKCA and any efforts to appoint a new Ombudsman haven’t been approved by the Election Officer until the General Body is formed, it is unfortunate that back-dated orders are now being issued by the former Ombudsman, retroactively dated to March 2025, despite no such orders being passed or communicated to me.”
The implications of these alleged back-dated orders could substantially affect club management and voting rights within the JKCA. Sethi raised alarms stating, “These orders are modifying club management structures and voting classifications, which I cannot be associated with.” His concerns reflect the potential for misuse of authority and the administrative fragility within the cricket association.
In the concluding remarks of his resignation letter, Sethi wrote with a tone of gratitude and responsibility, “As such, I tender my resignation from the Member Sub-Committee. Please accept and relieve me of my duties. I am thankful for the opportunity the Board has bestowed upon me.” His departure from the JKCA highlights the growing unrest about governance issues affecting cricket in the region.
This unfolding drama within JKCA underscores the pressing need for transparent governance and adherence to legal frameworks in sports administration. Experts believe Sethi’s resignation calls for a deeper investigation into the alleged misconduct surrounding the association’s operations. The Supreme Court’s intervention now remains a crucial factor in determining the future direction of JKCA.
As cricket continues to thrive in Jammu and Kashmir, stakeholders and fans alike will watch closely to see how the association rectifies these internal challenges while complying with the Supreme Court’s directives. The prompt organization of elections and resolution of governance issues will not only uphold the integrity of the JKCA but also ensure the promotion and development of cricket in the region.