A day after FIFA suspended the All India Football Federation (AIFF) 'due to undue influence from third parties', the Supreme Court on August 17 (Wednesday) sprung into action and ordered the government on lifting the suspension of AIFF.
"On the request of SG Mehta, we ask Centre to take pro active role to hold the U17 World Cup and lifting of the suspension of AIFF be facilitated," India's apex court said on Wednesday.
While appearing for the Centre, Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta said that the government made contact and held two meetings with FIFA after the world's premier board for the sport decided to drop the sword on AIFF.
The suspension of the All India Football Federation threatens the country from hosting the Under-17 Women's World Cup scheduled for Oct. 11-30.
"The suspension means that the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2022, scheduled to take place in India on 11-30 October 2022, cannot currently be held in India as planned. FIFA is assessing the next steps with regard to the tournament and will refer the matter to the Bureau of the Council if and when necessary," FIFA had said in a statement.
Addressing the burning issue that has left Indian football in turmoil, the Supreme Court also observed that India should 'have the benefit' of hosting the U17 Women's World Cup.
In response, SG Mehta argued that steps are being taken to 'find a way' while requesting the top court for some more time by adjourning the hearing till August 22.
India became the third nation to be banned by FIFA in 2022 after Zimbabwe and Kenya. Also, this is the first time in its 85-year existence that AIFF has been banned by FIFA.
