Assistant RO accepts nominations of P.T. Usha, Harjinder Singh; rejects objections

The Electoral Officer of the Indian Olympic Association has accepted the nominations of president P.T. Usha and IHAI Secretary General Harjinder Singh for the December 5 elections, dismissing objections regarding their eligibility.

A faction of the IHAI had challenged Usha’s membership status, while former IOA President Narinder Batra questioned the validity of both nominations. During a personal hearing on November 14, 2026, the IHAI confirmed their active membership and submitted affidavits.

The Electoral Officer ruled that being a member of another National Sports Federation does not automatically disqualify an individual, noting that the IOA constitution and the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, lack specific provisions against such dual association. Following this decision, the final electoral roll is scheduled for publication on the evening of November 15, 2026.