Thaindian News

New Delhi, June 6 (IANS) The newly-created Hockey India (HI) umbrella body has been formally recognised by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), it was announced here Saturday.
In the wake of severe criticism of the way the HI was set-up by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), HI officials called a hurried press conference Saturday to announce that it has got FIH approval.

For good measure, HI officials also said that elections to the new body would be held within three months.

The communication from the FIH to IOA president Suresh Kalmadi said: “We would like to congratulate you on the creation and formation of one single body to look after hockey for both men and women in India.

“This was mandatory for hosting and organising of the 12th FIH men’s hockey World Cup at New Delhi from March 7 to 20, 2010.

“Formality would require a letter to FIH from the IOA that the Hockey India has been recognised by the NOC (National Olympic Committee) but FIH waives this requirement on the clear understanding not only that the IOA recognises Hockey India as the sole governing body for Hockey, men and women, in India but that the membership of the IOA by the Indian Hockey Federation, Indian Women’s Hockey Federation and the Indian Hockey Confederation have all been terminated,” the communication said.

The world governing body, however, said HI must ensure free and fair elections within sixth months.

“The new state associations have to be formally accepted as members of Hockey India.”

HI secretary general Mohammad Aslam said they will ensure that the elections are conducted within the FIH deadline.

“We have massive support from various state associations and we are hopeful that the election will be conducted much before the six-month deadline of FIH,” Aslam said.