Negatively affecting reputation of India's Olympic movement: IOC reacts to IOA election mess
Usha remains in contention for a second term as IOA head after being nominated by the Ice Hockey Federation of India for the December 5 General Body meeting in which the body's polls would be held
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) expressed disappointment on Friday, November 13, 2026, over the recent controversy surrounding the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) elections, which has negatively impacted the reputation of India's Olympic movement. The IOC urged that the elections be held fairly without any external interference, after IOA President P.T.
Usha accused other candidates of manipulation to prevent her from being elected to the Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOMs) panel. Usha remains in contention for a second term as IOA head after being nominated for the December 5 General Body meeting, where the election polls would be held. The IOC has been working to establish a strong governance framework for the IOA in line with the Olympic Charter and good governance principles, but the current situation is again casting a negative light on the Olympic Movement in India.
India is one of seven countries vying to host the 2036 Olympic Games, and the power struggle within the IOA is not creating a favorable image of the country's administrative setup. The IOC expects the IOA and the Electoral Officer overseeing the elections to adhere to the Olympic Charter, IOA Constitution, and applicable rules, ensuring a free and fair election process without external interference.
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