Hockey India President Suspends Director-General Over Alleged Misconduct
Immediate Suspension of Director-General
Dilip Tirkey, the President of Hockey India, has taken the decisive step of suspending Director-General RK Srivastava due to multiple alleged instances of 'non-compliance and disobedience.' Srivastava has been granted a four-week period to provide a written explanation regarding these allegations.
Travel Controversy Surrounding the World Cup
Tirkey had previously instructed Srivastava, via official communication, to refrain from attending the 2026 World Cup, which was co-hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium. Instead, he was expected to assist in discussions with Hockey India League franchise owners in preparation for the upcoming season.
Interestingly, while Tirkey chose not to attend the World Cup, Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh, along with Chairman of Selectors RP Singh and Srivastava, were present at the event.
Barred from Acting on Behalf of Hockey India
Retired Commander RK Srivastava has also been prohibited from representing Hockey India in any capacity. A suspension letter issued by Tirkey's legal counsel emphasized the need for discipline and accountability within the organization.
Details of the Suspension
The letter, which has been circulated among the executive committee, outlines at least eight specific incidents where Srivastava allegedly failed to act as directed by the president. These incidents include the controversy surrounding the saffron jersey and the reported misconduct of players in South Africa, where Sukhjeet Singh was found in a concerning state after consuming cannabis-infused gummies in the company of teammates.
Serious Allegations of Non-Compliance
The letter highlights that Srivastava's disregard for the president's email dated August 2, 2026, particularly regarding points 2 to 4, was a significant issue. He was explicitly instructed not to attend the World Cup, as his focus was needed in India for Hockey India League and other pressing matters.
The president himself opted not to travel for similar organizational reasons, making Srivastava's actions a direct affront to the authority of the Hockey India presidency.
Specific Charges Against Srivastava
The suspension letter details several charges against Srivastava, including:
- Unauthorized change in the national team jersey without consulting the president or executive committee.
- Violation of a media embargo related to the jersey controversy by the public relations firm hired by Hockey India.
- Failure to take disciplinary action against players and the head coach regarding various incidents.
- Inability to confirm or deny reports about head coach Craig Fulton’s potential resignation.
- Neglecting to share the ICC/POSH report involving an office staff member.
- Not keeping the president informed about communications with various sporting bodies.
- Ignoring directives regarding travel arrangements for the World Cup.