In a significant turn of events, Sunil Sethi, Member–Legal Affairs of the Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), resigned from his position in the JKCA Sub-Committee on Friday. His resignation comes as he raises concerns regarding the issuance of what he describes as “back-dated orders” by the former Ombudsman, amid the backdrop of a Supreme Court directive to conduct elections within 12 weeks.
Sethi, who has served on the Sub-Committee since 2021, communicated his decision in a letter addressed to BCCI President Mithun Manhas. His departure comes after the Supreme Court’s order dated 27 October, which mandates the elections to be facilitated by former Chief Election Commissioner Achal Kumar Joti.
In his resignation letter, Sethi expressed concerns about the procedural integrity of the JKCA, stating, “As the Supreme Court has directed holding of elections of JKCA and the effort to appoint a new Ombudsman has not been approved by the Election Officer till the formation of the General Body, unfortunately, back-dated orders are being issued by the former Ombudsman now, dating them back to March 2025, when no such order was passed or reported to me.”
These allegations raised by Sethi highlight potential irregularities that may affect club management and voting rights within the JKCA. He elaborated, “These orders are changing the club management and voting rights. This is to change the voting nomenclature, which I do not wish to be party to.”
Concluding his correspondence, Sethi formally tendered his resignation, conveying gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the JKCA. “As such, I tender my resignation from Member Sub-Committee. Please accept and relieve me. I am thankful for the opportunity the Board has bestowed on me,” Sethi wrote.
This resignation and the underlying issues have raised questions about governance within the JKCA at a time when the cricketing landscape is under scrutiny. The Supreme Court’s involvement indicates a critical need for transparent and fair election processes within the association, ensuring a rightful transition within its leadership.
As the cricketing community watches closely, the JKCA must address these allegations and ensure compliance with judicial directives. Sethi’s claims could provoke further investigation and demand accountability from officials, especially as the association approaches its electoral process.
The JKCA has not yet responded to Sethi’s departure or the accusations regarding back-dated orders. Moving forward, the cricket association faces mounting pressure to uphold integrity and credibility by following the Supreme Court’s directives.
