FIFA sets July 31 deadline for AIFF constitution approval, Sep 15 for elections to avoid ban
On the conclusion of its three-day visit to the country, the team, led by Asian Football Confederation General Secretary Windsor John, made it clear that the deadlines will have to be followed strictly. A FIFA ban would mean the Women's U-17 World Cup, to be held in October, taken away from the country. "It has been made clear by the joint FIFA-AFC team that the deadlines will have to be strictly adhered to.
If not, the country can be banned and the U-17 Women's World Cup will be taken away," a top source, who is privy to the discussions, told PTI on condition of anonymity. "The FIFA wants enough time for the new office bearers to prepare for the U-17 Women's World Cup, that is why the September 15 deadline for elections so that the elected office bearers can take charge by September 20. "Now, the ball is in the CoA's court to help the new constitution of the AIFF get approved by July 31.
The state associations have also pledged all possible help." Last month, the Supreme Court ousted the Praful Patel-led dispensation in the AIFF and appointed a three-member Committee of Administrators (CoA) to frame a new constitution and hold elections for a new set of office bearers. The next date or hearing is July 21 (though it is written July 23 on docket). Once the Supreme Court gives the green signal, the new constitution is expected to be approved within seven days.
The state associations in the morning passed a resolution to call a Special General Body Meeting within seven days of approval by the SC. "We have passed a resolution to call a General Body Meeting within seven days of SC approval of the constitution. Ultimately, the General Body will have to approve the new constitution, otherwise it (constitution) will not
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