IOA given time till today to reply to Sports Ministry's show-cause notice

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has been given time till today to reply to the show-cause notice issued by Sports Ministry threatening de-recognition of the sports body if it does not reverse its decision to make scam-tainted Suresh Kalmadi and Abhay Singh Chautala as Life Presidents. 

Talking to reporters after inaugurating the 10th National Vanvasi Archery Competition in Mumbai yesterday, Sports Minister Vijay Goel said that the government will severe ties with the IOA if the controversial decision is not overturned. Mr. Goel also hit out at Indian Olympic Association President N Ramachandran for honouring the scam-tainted duo.

Kalmadi and Chautala were elevated to the honorary position at the



IOA's Annual General Meeting in Chennai three days ago. The notice issued by Sports Ministry said charges have been framed by court against Kalmadi and Chautala. Persons who cannot contest elections for any post in the IOA have been appointed as Life President of IOA, which in spirit is violative of both IOC's conditionalities and IOA's own constitution. 

Meanwhile, Indian Olympic Association has said it is not going to abide by Sports Ministry's direction to reply to the show cause notice by today. A top official of IOA told PTI that it will first consult IOC, the parent international body. He said, under Olympic Charter, the IOA enjoys autonomy and independence from government interference.