Xtratime Web Desk: A delegation comprising prominent figures from West Bengal's football fraternity met the state's Sports Minister, Dr. Indranil Khan, demanding greater transparency and administrative reforms within the Indian Football Association (IFA).

The delegation included Jinia Raychaudhury, Chairperson of Southern Samity Club, former IFA Joint Assistant Secretary Sheikh Nazrul Islam, and former Bengal football team Physical Trainer Kuntal Chakraborty.

During the meeting, the representatives raised several concerns regarding the functioning of the IFA's administrative structure and submitted a series of proposals aimed at improving governance. Among their key demands was that four IFA office-bearers above the age of 70 should step down from their respective positions.

The delegation also alleged irregularities in the association's financial procedures. They claimed that transactions exceeding ₹2 lakh should mandatorily follow a transparent tender process, but this rule has allegedly not been adhered to in several cases. They specifically alleged that IFA's broadcasting-related contracts have been approved without inviting tenders.

The representatives further demanded a comprehensive investigation into the ongoing match-fixing issue. They pointed out that seven individuals have already been arrested in connection with the case and urged the authorities to conduct a thorough probe to uncover the full extent of the alleged fixing network.

According to sources, Sports Minister Dr. Indranil Khan listened carefully to the delegation's concerns and assured them that the allegations raised during the meeting would be examined through an appropriate investigation.

The meeting comes at a time when sections of the football fraternity have increasingly voiced concerns over transparency and alleged financial irregularities within the IFA. Against this backdrop, the Sports Minister's assurance of an investigation is being viewed as a significant development for football administration in West Bengal.