OCA elections row deepens amid legal threat and Sports Bill deadlock

The ongoing dispute over the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) elections has intensified, with fresh statements from opposing sides escalating tensions within the association.

The controversy, which first surfaced during the recent OCA General Body meeting, revolves around whether the elections should be conducted immediately or deferred until the introduction of the new Sports Bill.

Division Over Timing of Polls

During the General Body meeting, divisions emerged among members. While one group pushed for immediate elections, another section argued that the process should be postponed until the new Sports Bill is introduced. The disagreement led to sharp exchanges during the meeting.

OCA Council member and former MLA Lalitendu Bidyadhar Mohapatra reiterated his demand that elections be conducted without delay. He alleged that attempts were being made to defer the polls in violation of established norms.

Citing the Lodha Committee recommendations, Mohapatra stated that elections in 16 state cricket associations have already been completed, while OCA has yet to conduct its polls.

Allegations of Norm Violations

Speaking to media personnel, Mohapatra questioned the continuation of the current leadership.

“I had questioned the OCA President if they had received any notice explicitly asking them not to conduct the election. If not, how is he still holding the position when his tenure has been over since October 2025? Not conducting the election now is highly unethical, unconstitutional, and unacceptable. I will go to the court of law,” he said.

Mohapatra further stated that he would inform the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and seek legal recourse over the matter.

OCA Secretary Responds

OCA Secretary Sanjay Behera dismissed the allegations, asserting that no rules have been violated. He maintained that the elections would be conducted after the introduction of the new Sports Bill.

Responding to Mohapatra’s remarks, Behera said, “He told us that if elections are not held as per previous norms, then he will go to the court of law. Every person has the right to do it. I had also spoken to CM Mohan Majhi; he assured his stance with OCA and Barabati Stadium’s renovation.”

Also Read: Odisha Cricket Association election dispute escalates amid allegations of irregularities

The ongoing standoff has heightened political and administrative activity within the association, with uncertainty continuing over the timing of the OCA elections.