PT Usha's Candidacy for IOA Elections Faces Legal Challenge

Uncertainty Surrounds PT Usha's Election Bid

The future of PT Usha, president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), in the upcoming elections is now in doubt due to a formal objection against her eligibility on the electoral roll.

Usha, who previously lost in the Sportspersons of Merit (SOM) election, has been included in the electoral roll by the Ice Hockey Association of India (IHAI). Advocate Atul Kumar has lodged an official complaint with returning officer Sanjay Kumar Srivastava, contesting her inclusion.

Kumar had previously raised concerns about Usha's conduct during the SOM elections, claiming she breached the model code of conduct by campaigning for votes. He has also objected to the nominations of Udit Sheth, former head of the Yogasana Federation, and General (retd) Harpal Singh, nominated by Ski and Snowboard India (SSI).

In his objection, Kumar is requesting the returning officer to assess whether Usha's nomination fulfills the required membership qualifications.

In his correspondence, Kumar stated, "Please record this as a formal objection to the provisional inclusion of Ms. PT Usha as the female representative of IHAI, along with Harpal Singh and Udit Harish Sheth."

He further urged that if Usha does not meet the essential qualifications, her name should be removed from the final electoral roll as per legal standards.

Usha's performance in the female Sportspersons of Merit election was disappointing, finishing fifth out of six candidates with only 40 votes. In contrast, Anju Bobby George (53), Rani Rampal (50), Dola Banerjee (45), and Saina Nehwal (43) all received more support.

Despite this setback, Usha's recent inclusion in the electoral roll via the Ice Hockey Association of India has sparked renewed optimism about her candidacy.