The central government has launched an investigation into corruption allegations against the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) and its affiliated business entity, the Country Cricket Club.
This investigation was initiated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) after Nirmal Kaur, a retired IPS officer and spouse of late Amitabh Choudhary, former president of Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA), lodged a complaint.
On March 7, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) issued an order directing the Regional Director to inspect the management practices of the Country Cricket Club.
Nirmal Kaur expressed concern about JSCA management
The investigation will uncover whether or not possible irregularities or misconduct are taking place in the operations of the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) and its associated trade body.
Amitabh Choudhary’s family raised concerns about JSCA’s management after his death in August 2022. They have alleged serious corruption, financial mismanagement and fraudulent practices, including dubious elections.
Although Sanjay Sahay is president of CEJA, the former president’s family claims that local politicians have significant influence on the organization’s daily operations.
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Nirmal Kaur’s complaint involves Rajiv Kumar Singh, former director of the Patna-based Country Cricket Club, alleging corruption and conflicts of interest. The complaint stated that the club’s activities do not serve the public interest.
He also alleges that the resources and funds given by the BCCI are being misused as some specific people are reaping the benefits. In addition to this, the complaint also mentions cases of fraudulent bidding and irregularities in the November 2023 electoral process.
Meanwhile, Nirmal Kaur’s complaint further raises several issues related to misuse of Jharkhand State Cricket Association stadium infrastructure and denial of access to JSCA resources to aspiring cricketers.
Club accounts not maintained properly: Nirmal Kaur
He also questioned the exclusive membership policies and lack of transparency in the club’s financial practices, as well as how Rajiv Kumar Singh can reside within the CEJA Stadium premises as it primarily belongs to Patana.
As reported by India Today, the complaint said: “Membership is restricted as is the Gymkhana Club. The club’s accounts are not maintained properly. The total income of the Club is not counted. The electricity bills and all maintenance bills of the club are paid with grants from the BCCI.
The Club’s income is used in false tenders and the Purchasing and Management Committee is enriched by the Club’s profits.” Notably, Nirmal Kaur lodged a complaint with the Jharkhand police in December 2023, which led to the registration of an FIR at the Dhurwa police station.
The complaint accused specific JSCA officials, along with Rajiv Kumar Singh, of illegally entering and removing items from the chambers assigned to Amitabh Choudhary immediately after his death.
Currently, BCCI is conducting the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League 2024 (IPL 2024). The Jharkhand Cricket Association stadium in Ranchi was not chosen as the venue for the ongoing IPL 2024.