PT Usha takes IOA election battle to IOC, seeks probe into alleged violations

NEW DELHI: Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president Usha has urged International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Kirsty Coventry for an independent examination of the IOA’s controversial Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOM) elections.In a confidential three-page complaint dated Nov 9, accessed exclusively by TOI, Usha raises serious concerns about the elections, including allegations of incumbent officials canvassing for candidates, messages seeking confirmation of voters’ participation and even references to the sports ministry in communications surrounding a secret ballot.In the letter, Usha has also questioned the handling of her four representations by returning officer (RO) Sanjay K. Srivastava and asked the IOC to ascertain whether any govt or external influence was exerted during the electoral process.The letter comes after Usha’s own electoral setback, with the IOA president finishing fifth with 40 votes in a six-way contest for four women’s SOM positions.