IHF and HI Merger: Ministry Explains Solution Logic

Following the International Hockey Federation’s (FIH) disappointment with the Union Sports Ministry over the interim merger of the country’s two warring hockey bodies- HI and IHF, the Union Ministry on Monday reiterated that the decision that has been made is the best for Indian Hockey and the ministry is least bothered about FIH.

A top official within the ministry, in his conversation with a reputed sports portal, stated that neither of the two bodies-HI and IHF could be wiped off keeping several factors in mind. It is not legally and morally viable also.

So an amicable working solution was sought out where the two bodies would come together to decide the national team, which is key for a long term solution

“We have created new stakes in a three-pronged formula: (1) Selection of National Teams, (2) Preparation of National Teams and (3) Participation of National Teams in International Tournaments, including the 2012 Olympics,” the official said.

The official also explained what neither of the two bodies could be wiped out.

“For whatever they have done wrong, the IHF has a long history of 60 years, and the manner in which the Indian Olympic Committee washed it out at one go based on a sting operation has no legal validity whatever. The Sports Ministry, it is true, had supported the creation of HI because it had no option then, but the IHF cannot be wished away.

“On the other hand, HI is a reality, the only FIH recognized body and it has in the past two years not only done a lot of work but has consistently been asked by the Supreme Court to select the national team for international outings,” added the official.

At this juncture, when there is no other way to make the two bodies work together; this was the last straw the ministry had. In doing so both the parties will be accountable for the selection and preparations of teams and they will be left with no option but to work together.

“The IHF has the rights to organise national tourneys and the HI has the license to hold the international tourneys, but now both will realise that neither property can be effectively work without them working together. Our aim is to make them work together and end the isolation, and once that starts happening, the chances are the small ego hassles will wear out. After all, one cannot doubt that both Batra (Narinder, secretary general of HI) and Shetty (RK, president of IHF) are patriots in the end and love the sport.”

On being asked it the ego hassle doesn’t wear out and the two warring bodies continue their clashes, the minister said, “Well, that is where the sports law is coming up. If the FIH is taking umbrage at the small measures we have undertaken, then what will they do with the sports law, which is sovereign?”