In a significant shift within the Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), Sunil Sethi, a Member of the Sub-Committee for Legal Affairs, has resigned, citing serious allegations against the former Ombudsman regarding the issuance of “back-dated orders.” Sethi submitted his resignation to BCCI President Mithun Manhas after serving on the committee since 2021.
This development follows a Supreme Court order dated 27 October, which mandated that the JKCA conduct elections within a stipulated period of 12 weeks. The election will be overseen by former Chief Election Commissioner Achal Kumar Joti, who will ensure the process aligns with judicial directives.
Sethi provided clarity on his resignation in a detailed letter, outlining his concerns. He stated, “As the Supreme Court has directed the holding of elections of JKCA, and the effort to appoint a new Ombudsman has yet to receive approval from the Election Officer until the General Body is established, back-dated orders are being issued by the former Ombudsman. These orders are being dated back to March 2025, which is unfounded and not reported to me.”
The implications of these alleged back-dated orders have raised a red flag for Sethi. He highlighted that such directives are altering club management and voting rights. He expressed his discontent, stating, “This is to change the voting nomenclature, which I cannot support.” Such concerns point to potential irregularities that could undermine the governance of cricket in the region.
In his concluding remarks, Sethi formally stated his resignation: “As such, I tender my resignation from the Member Sub-Committee. Please accept and relieve me. I am thankful for the opportunity the Board has bestowed on me.” Sethi’s resignation raises important questions about transparency and governance within the JKCA.
The JKCA has faced scrutiny in the past regarding its governance and operational integrity. Sethi’s resignation could signal deeper issues within the cricket body, highlighting the need for immediate reforms as mandated by the Supreme Court. Stakeholders in the sports community are now watching the JKCA closely as it navigates this challenging phase.
As speculation rises regarding the future of JKCA, it remains to be seen how the association will address the allegations and move forward post-elections. The integrity of the electoral process now takes center stage, especially in light of Sethi’s revelations.
