Lifeline for Boxing India, polls on Sept 11

JAIPUR: In a huge relief to the Boxing India (BI), the International Boxing Association (AIBA) has finally granted the Indian body a month's extension to conduct the fresh elections and form a permanent federation. And, after missing out on the August 15 deadline, the Boxing India has decided to conduct the polls on September 11.
The Indian body, which had previously 'postponed' its July 9th election owing to technical reasons, however, will have to start afresh with the electoral process and invite new nominations for the position of president, secretary general, treasurer, vice-presidents and Executive Council members.
Even after refusing to extend the deadline, what made the AIBA relent? "We clearly told them (AIBA) that as per the Indian sports code, we have to follow a few guidelines, and we are serious about the betterment of the sport," a BI spokesperson told TOI. "We don't want any glitches in the process. So, a fresh election would be required to form the new body," he added.
Though some of the heavyweight leaders' nominations were cancelled owing to various reasons, some of the members did fit the bill for the July 9th elections, but they will have to file fresh nominations again to be eligible for election.
In such circumstances, won't that lead to legal tangle?
"That's up to the individuals, but we are strictly following the AIBA's instructions," the spokesperson pointed out.
Making it absolutely clear that it wouldn't allow any discrepancies in the election process, the AIBA has also given a strict warning to the BI to follow the guidelines properly.
"The world body doesn't want the tainted officials to be a part of the new federation, and that's something BI should be careful of," a source in the AIBA confirmed.
With the positions of 10 vice-presidents, seven executive committee members up for the elections, the Indian federation will barely have a month's time to conduct the process. "They (BI) can't afford another slip-up. If they miss the deadline again, the world body may come down heavily on the boxers," the source added, indicating that boxers' participation at the Asian Games will depend on whether the polls are organized smoothly .
But even after missing deadlines in the past, the BI is confident. "We will announce the election process and venue of the election shortly," interim secretary general Mohit Bhagchandani said.
In the last few years, Indian boxing has witnessed high dramas on various issues, and now with AIBA providing a breather, BI would be hoping to get the house in order.