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Bhutia and Chaubey Clash Over AIFF Management

An Executive Committee meeting on July 2 will test whether Bhutia’s calls for transparency can be addressed as criticism of AIFF leadership mounts.

All India Football Federation president Kalyan Chaubey (centre) flanked by the federation's treasurer Kipa Ajay (left) and technical director Syed Sabir Pasha at last Friday's media conference in New Delhi.
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Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia on Friday made a scathing attack on the All India Football Federation (AIFF) leadership. (Hindustan Times)
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Overview

  • At a June 20 press conference in Kolkata, Bhaichung Bhutia labelled the federation under Kalyan Chaubey a “circus” and accused the presidency of lacking transparency in decisions.
  • Kalyan Chaubey issued a statement rejecting Bhutia’s claims as baseless distortions and formally invited him to present constructive proposals at the July 2 Executive Committee meeting.
  • Bhutia criticised specific governance choices, including coach Manolo Marquez’s dual role with India and FC Goa, the abrupt withdrawal of India’s 2027 AFC Asian Cup bid, and the unresolved I-League title dispute.
  • India’s men’s team slipped to 133rd in FIFA rankings and struggled in Asian Cup qualifiers under Chaubey’s tenure, prompting scrutiny of coaching appointments and strategic planning.
  • The AIFF reported a ₹14.70 crore surplus alongside ₹2,333 crore in state government investments and is pursuing overseas citizen recruits and expanded grassroots programmes to strengthen the national setup.