Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha has unwaveringly stood by the appointment of CEO Raghuram Iyer despite reports of suspension orders and internal controversy within the IOA Executive Council (EC). Iyer was named the Chief Executive Officer of IOA on January 6, a year after it was initially due, following repeated reminders from the International Olympic Committee. However, shortly after his appointment, several EC members raised objections, alleging that Usha had exerted pressure on them to facilitate Iyer's appointment.
The controversy surrounding Iyer's recruitment led to around 12 out of 15 EC members claiming that his appointment had not been ratified by the apex body. Amidst these developments, PT Usha has remained resolute in her support for Iyer and the appointment process.
Speaking at a function organized by the Delhi Sports Journalists Association (DSJA) and Sports Journalists Federation of India (SJFI), PT Usha addressed the issue, stating, "CEO is working. I've already appointed the CEO in a very proper way, and he is working there." When asked about Iyer's future in light of the reported opposition within the EC, she responded, "100 percent (he will continue). Why not? He is a very good CEO, and because the IOC needs good ones (officials) only."
Usha stressed the importance of having a prominent figure in the CEO role, believing it would benefit Indian sports significantly. She asserted, "We always wanted IOA to have a big one (a renowned person in the CEO's position)...and (it can help) sports in a very big way. I'm thinking that way only."
The controversy notwithstanding, Usha expressed her confidence in the CEO, affirming, "I'm believing in him (CEO) and I have confidence in whatever he is doing now."
In a statement issued later, Usha clarified, "neither the president (of the IOA) nor the CEO are in receipt of any communication from the executive council members (on the reported suspension of the appointment of the CEO)."
During the function, PT Usha was honored with a medallion, a citation, and a memento by the sports journalists, making her the fifth recipient of the SJFI and DSJA 'Lifetime Achievement' award. Acknowledging the recognition, Usha expressed gratitude and reflected on her career achievements.
Usha, an Indian track and field legend, has won 103 international medals for the country, including four gold medals and seven silver medals at the Asian Games. She also represented India in three editions of the Olympics. Despite the challenges of her era, she carved a path of success in athletics.
Speaking about her achievements, Usha remarked, "I am grateful that my career achievements are being remembered till today. During my time, we did not have all the facilities that are available with athletes in today's age — overseas training, nutrition, sports psychologist, and sports science, among others."
She further emphasized the collective effort to focus on preparations for the upcoming Paris Olympics, highlighting the significance of promoting sports in India. PT Usha's unwavering support for the CEO amid controversy underscores her dedication to the betterment of Indian sports on the global stage.
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