Inter Kashi raise concerns ahead of final hearing on Namdhari FC's appeal

Inter Kashi are fighting hard to claim the I-League 2024-25 title.

I-League outfit Inter Kashi have expressed serious concerns over the lack of transparency and procedural delays in their ongoing case involving Namdhari FC in a formal letter addressed to the honorable Justice (retd.) Rajesh Tandon, chairperson of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) Appeals Committee.

The club highlighted potential violations of natural justice principles, including the right to be heard, as it prepares for a final hearing scheduled for April 12, 2025, at 11:30 AM. Both parties have been requested by Justice Tandon to be physically present in New Delhi for the final hearing.

Inter Kashi criticise the lack of communication from the AIFF

The letter, dated April 10, 2025, begins by acknowledging and appreciating Justice Tandon for the inclusion of Inter Kashi in the proceedings, which directly impact the club’s interests in the I-League this season. However, it reveals that the first formal communication from the AIFF regarding the case was only received recently, despite the proceedings being underway for some time.

Before the e-mail communication from Justice Tandon, Inter Kashi were solely reliant on a copy of the AIFF Appeals Committee’s March 25 order, which was shared by Namdhari FC, a treatment that the club contends be highly irregular.

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Inter Kashi didn’t receive all the required documents from the AIFF

The club’s legal team had promptly requested a comprehensive set of documents from the AIFF to prepare their case. The requested documents include the AIFF Statutes, Disciplinary Code, and multiple decisions and orders dated between December 2024 and March 2025.

The Kashi Warriors feel these documents will play a critical role in understanding the basis of the rulings and formulating their arguments before the final hearing on Saturday. However, as of the date of the letter, the club had not received the requested materials, leaving them with less than 48 hours to prepare for the final hearing.

‘Natural justice’ violated by the AIFF against the Kashi Warriors

While emphasizing that this delay severely hampers their ability to present a fair and informed case, the club feels football’s apex body has violated the principles of natural justice. The letter underscores the importance of these principles, which have been upheld by Justice Tandon in his previous rulings.

The club has urged the AIFF to provide the documents “forthwith and without delay” to ensure a level playing field. The letter reflects the club’s determination to safeguard its rights while maintaining faith in the judicial process.

The concerns highlighted by Inter Kashi raise broader questions about procedural fairness and transparency within the AIFF’s disciplinary processes. With the hearing less than 24 hours away, the football community will be watching closely to see how the federation addresses these concerns.

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