Odisha Cricket Association election dispute escalates amid allegations of irregularities

The election process of the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) sparked a fresh controversy after senior leader Lalitendu Bidyadhar Mohapatra on Sunday boycotted the General Body meeting and levelled serious allegations against the association’s functioning.

After boycotting the General Body meeting, Mohapatra alleged that attempts are being made to deliberately delay the OCA elections in violation of established norms. He claimed that as per the Lodha Committee recommendations, elections in 16 affiliated associations have already been completed, while OCA is repeatedly postponing its election process without valid justification.

Mohapatra strongly opposed the move and announced his decision to boycott the meeting in protest. He further stated that he would inform the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about the matter and, if necessary, seek legal recourse.

Alleging long-standing irregularities, Mohapatra said that a handful of individuals have been controlling the OCA for several years. He also raised concerns over alleged financial mismanagement within the association and demanded a special audit to probe the accounts. He announced plans to meet the Chief Minister of Odisha to press for a thorough investigation into the alleged irregularities.

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Meanwhile, OCA Secretary Sanjay Behera dismissed Mohapatra’s allegations as baseless and unfounded. Refuting the claims of corruption, Behera asserted that there has been no financial irregularity within the association.

Responding to Mohapatra’s statement about meeting the Chief Minister, Behera said he too would meet the Chief Minister and present his side of the matter.

Clarifying the outcome of the Special General Body meeting held today, Behera stated that discussions were held regarding the OCA election process, and all members unanimously agreed not to conduct the elections at present. He explained that the elections would be held only after the introduction of the new Sports Bill and in accordance with the directives of the BCCI.

The dispute has intensified the political and administrative tension surrounding OCA’s election process, with both sides preparing to escalate the matter further.