October 14, 2025

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) recently took a big step by adopting its constitution approved by the Supreme Court. But hold on, they skipped two tricky clauses that need more guidance from the Supreme Court. In a drama-filled special general body meeting in Panaji, 29 out of 32 members said yes to the revised constitution. However, three members, including former AIFF president Praful Patel representing WIFA and vice president Subrata Dutta from IFA, voted no. They wanted to wait for the Supreme Court’s direction before fully adopting the constitution. The AIFF announced, "The general body adopted the revised constitution along with changes recommended by the Supreme Court." The meeting was not just a local affair — top officials from FIFA and AFC also attended. Emilie Doms from FIFA, Sonam Jigmi from AFC, and Prince Rufus from FIFA’s South Asia office kept a close eye on things. Why the fuss about two clauses? FIFA raised eyebrows about Article 23.3, which says no amendment can take effect without Supreme Court approval. But the Supreme Court has made it clear it wants no role in controlling football affairs. FIFA understands the intention but warns this clause might look like it stops AIFF's independence. FIFA suggested either deleting Article 23.3 or adding a rule that makes the clause void right after the constitution is adopted, so future changes won't need the court’s approval. Then comes Articles 25.3 (c) and (d), which say if someone is elected to the AIFF’s executive committee and also holds a post in a state association, they lose their state post automatically. FIFA worries this could reduce the pool of seasoned football leaders in India. Since the current executive committee is fixed till September 2026, this rule does not apply now, but it may cause trouble in the future. Here’s the hammer: FIFA and AFC have given AIFF a final deadline of October 30 to align its constitution fully with their rules and regulations. If AIFF fails to meet this date, Indian football risks a serious ban. The countdown is on, and all eyes are on AIFF to clean up its act and keep Indian football flying high!

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Tags: Aiff, Fifa, Supreme court, Indian football, Constitution, Football governance,