Trinamool Accuses BJP of Denying Sourav Ganguly a Second Term in BCCI Due to His Non-Alignment with BJP
The political landscape of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is abuzz with speculation and controversy as Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian cricketer, prepares for a potential second term as BCCI President.
During his first tenure (2019-2024), Ganguly's leadership was marked by high-profile conflicts, most notably with Virat Kohli, and mixed performances by the Indian cricket team, including early exits from major tournaments [1][3]. These events have sparked political debates on Ganguly's return, as some question his governance style and past conflicts.
In contrast, Jay Shah, BCCI Secretary, has maintained a relatively low-profile and stable tenure without major public conflicts. His conflict-free administration has kept his role uncontroversial [1][3].
The Trinamool Congress, a political party, has alleged that the BCCI's decision not to allow Ganguly a second term is a case of political vendetta. They claim that an elderly BJP leader visited Ganguly's house for dinner in May this year [4]. The BJP has denied these allegations, stating they never attempted to induct Ganguly into their party [5].
Ganguly himself has distanced himself from national politics and confined himself to cricket management. He has clarified that he knows Amit Shah, the BJP leader, for a long time and held a dinner with him, contrary to rumors [6].
BJP national vice-president Dilip Ghosh has described the allegations against the BJP regarding Ganguly as "baseless" [7]. However, the BJP has not directly responded to the allegations of political interference.
Meanwhile, Roger Binny, a member of the 1983 World Cup winning team, has filed his nomination for the BCCI President position and is likely to get the position unopposed [2]. If no other candidate emerges, Binny is expected to become the new BCCI President.
Jay Shah has also filed his nomination and is expected to continue as BCCI Secretary for a second successive term if no other candidate emerges [8]. If Ganguly is not re-elected as BCCI President, Shah is anticipated to replace him as India's representative at the ICC Board.
The BCCI's annual general conference is scheduled to be held on October 18 in Mumbai, where the fate of Ganguly's presidency and Shah's continued role will be decided.
Trinamool MP Santanu Sen has expressed support for Ganguly, questioning why he would not be granted a second term as BCCI President [9]. The political controversy surrounding Ganguly's potential second term underscores the challenges and differing perceptions of leadership styles within the BCCI's current political landscape.
This article was last updated on October 11, 2022.
References: 1. NDTV 2. ESPN Cricinfo 3. The Indian Express 4. The Telegraph 5. The Indian Express 6. NDTV 7. The Indian Express 8. NDTV 9. The Telegraph
