Ousted TTFI Secretary General Challenges Suspension in High Court

Kamlesh Mehta, former TTFI secretary general, is challenging his suspension in Delhi High Court, arguing the decision violated procedural norms. His suspension was allegedly based on governance failures and financial irregularities. Mehta claims it breached natural justice principles and constitutional rights, pointing to internal federation issues.

Kamlesh Mehta, the ousted Secretary General of the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI), has taken legal action by approaching the Delhi High Court to contest his suspension. The suspension, which took place during the federation's annual general meeting (AGM) on January 28, has sparked a legal challenge spearheaded by Justice Sachin Datta, who will hear the matter on February 11.

Representing Mehta, his senior lawyer argued that the suspension was never an agenda item on the AGM and criticized the lack of opportunity for Mehta to present his case. In response, senior counsel for TTFI claimed that Mehta's suspension was delivered through a comprehensive, well-reasoned order, emphasizing the absence of urgency in the case. Meanwhile, a 3-member enquiry committee has been deployed to make a final determination on the situation.

The issue has drawn attention to broader organizational challenges, such as factionalism within federations, noted by a central government representative. Highlighting various allegations, the TTFI stated that Mehta's suspension stemmed from serious procedural breaches, governance failures, and financial issues, rebutting suggestions of internal politics as the cause. As the matter proceeds in court, questions about democratic processes and constitutional rights within such federations remain at the forefront.

(With inputs from agencies.)