PT Usha, the president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), suffered a setback on Monday when she lost the elections for the Sportsperson of Outstanding Merit (SOM). This defeat significantly undermines her ambitions for a second term as president. Usha, who was serving as an incumbent SOM in the IOA executive body, was elected as president in 2022. With this loss, she has effectively vacated her position within the IOA executive body, as the organisation’s elections are scheduled for December 5.

The online election saw the selection of four new SOMs: Anju Bobby George, Rani Rampal, Dola Banerjee, and Saina Nehwal. The announcement was made by returning officer Sanjay Kumar Srivastava. Usha, alongside Anitha Paul Durai, a former basketball player, was among the candidates but finished in fifth place, raising questions about her future in the organisation.

This outcome casts doubt on Usha’s potential return to the top post in the IOA. Should she wish to contest again, Usha would need to be nominated to the IOA general assembly by a National Sports Federation, contingent upon meeting the criteria outlined in the IOA constitution.

Voting Breakdown and Implications

Anju Bobby George led the voting with 53 votes, followed closely by Rani Rampal with 50 votes, Dola Banerjee with 45 votes, and Saina Nehwal with 43 votes. Usha received 40 votes. In contrast, four male SOMs—Gagan Narang, Kamlesh Mehta, Yogeshwar Dutt, and Vijender Singh—were elected unopposed after eight candidates withdrew from the race. This included notable figures like Adille Sumariwalla, the former president of the Athletics Federation of India.

The election results indicate a shift in support within the IOA, with some insiders suggesting that Usha’s position was precarious. Despite speculation that she might withdraw her candidacy, Usha chose to proceed with her campaign. The lead-up to the election was marked by intense lobbying, back-channel negotiations, and allegations of misconduct among executive body members.

Usha filed a complaint claiming that certain executive body members were violating the model code of conduct, while opposing factions also lodged complaints against her. Her tenure has been marred by internal disputes, although recent efforts have led to a more unified approach within the IOA, particularly in preparation for upcoming international events.

Future Leadership of the IOA

The recent election results suggest a potential change in leadership within the IOA, as the organisation gears up for its Olympic bid. Reports indicate that Saina Nehwal, a bronze medallist from the London Olympics, may have garnered support from a faction within the IOA to run for the presidency. Another group appears to be backing Anju Bobby George, who has administrative experience as the senior vice president of the Athletics Federation of India.

Additionally, Gagan Narang, a fellow London Olympics medallist and current IOA executive board member, is also considered a contender for the presidential role. As the next phase of IOA elections approaches, each recognised national federation will be required to submit two names—one male and one female—for the upcoming general assembly meeting.

The general assembly will consist of eight SOMs, two representatives from the Athletes Commission, and India’s member of the International Olympic Committee. This assembly will be responsible for electing the new executive council, but considerable developments are expected before the elections take place.

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