Delhi High Court refers Hockey India election dispute to internal panel

The Delhi High Court has referred a legal challenge by Hockey India (HI) president Dilip Tirkey regarding the national federation’s election process to an internal grievance redressal mechanism. Tirkey had petitioned the court to halt or reform the upcoming elections, alleging they were announced through illegally convened Executive Board meetings.

The dispute is reportedly part of an administrative conflict between Tirkey and HI Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh. The court has directed that the grievances be examined according to HI’s bye-laws, with former Supreme Court judge Justice A K Sikri appointed to lead the grievance redressal committee.

The situation has also sparked political tension in Odisha. The opposition BJD has criticized the government following a proposal by HI to downgrade the Hockey Association of Odisha from permanent to associate member status. Hockey Odisha has welcomed the court's decision, viewing it as a step toward greater transparency and accountability.