Battle in Sikkim’s Football Turf: SFA Vs FDPL, The Story So Far
First Published: 30th August, 2024 21:58 IST
The FDPL accused the SFA of focusing on maintaining control, acting as a hindrance rather than a partner in progress.
The football loving state of Sikkim is witnessing a game of football not between two teams but the Sikkim Football Association and the Football Development Private Limited (FDPL) who were fighting it out over the brand name Sikkim Premier League.
The Football Development Private Limited (FDPL) has levelled serious allegations against the Sikkim Football Association (SFA), accusing it of hindering progress and stifling the growth of football in the state.
In a statement issued today, the FDPL has accused the SFA of focusing on maintaining control, acting as a hindrance rather than a partner in progress.
FDPL said that instead of fostering collaboration, SFA has stifled the growth of football and undermined the spirit of unity.
FDPL further stated that despite putting in significant efforts to revitalize and grow football, the local association often seems to act as a barrier rather than a supporter.
Meanwhile, the SFA has put on hold the ‘SFA ‘A’ Division S-League’, which was scheduled to start tomorrow, till further notice.
Earlier in the day, the Association also changed the name of its football tournament originally named ‘Sikkim Premier League’ to ‘SFA ‘A’ Division League’.
Notably, the row erupted over the ‘Sikkim Premier League’ brand name as the FDPL had been hosting a football tournament under the same name since 2023.
Concerned over the use of the same nomenclature by the SFA, the FDPL had sought intervention of the Sikkim Government.
In a formal letter to Sports Minister Raju Basnet, FDPL has demanded a stay order against the SFA’s use of the ‘Sikkim Premier League’ name, citing unauthorized use of their brand.
The FDPL said that the continued use of the name by the SFA undermines the league’s integrity and its original aim of enhancing football standards in Sikkim, a vision supported by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang.
CM Tamang, in his initial response, expressed his concerns about the situation.
Through a social media post, he questioned why the SFA chose to use the same branding for its event, given that the FDPL’s league has been operational since last year.
CM Tamang emphasized the need for unity and collaboration in promoting football, urging all parties to avoid actions that could lead to confusion and controversy.
Also Watch:
COMMENTS
TOPMOST STORY NOW
Live Is There An Assam Connection to Illegal Influx of Bangladeshis into Delhi?
24th December 2024Live 5 States Get New Governors in Recent Reshuffle, Ajay Kumar Bhalla Appointed as Manipur Governor
24th December 2024Live Zo United President, Albert Rentlhei Wishes Everyone Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
24th December 2024Live Zomi Council Chairman, N Vumsuan Wishes Everyone Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
24th December 2024WE RECOMMEND
Safeguarding Northeast’s Identity and Culture Top Priority: Home Minister Amit Shah at NEC Plenary
Amit Shah further stressed the need for a shift in focus from countering extremism to empowering citizens with constitutional rights.
21st December 2024Indigenous Identity at Risk, NEIPF Urges NE MPs to Take Action to Stop Influx of Myanmar and Bangladesh Refugees into Northeast
The NEIPF is planning to meet all the CMs of the Northeastern states for meaningful discussions
19th December 2024Sikkim: Theng Tunnel Reopens for Upward Traffic After GLOF Closure
The closure of the tunnel severely impacted connectivity, affecting local communities and disrupting trade and travel in the region.
19th December 2024Manipur’s Haobam Satyabati Devi, Assam’s Sameer Tanti and Sikkim’s Yuva Baral Get Sahitya Akademi Award 2024
Haobam Satyabati Devi from Manipur also got the award in the Poetry category for her poem “Mainu Bora Nungshi Sheirol”, which explores the delicate interplay of love, culture, and identity.
18th December 2024Sikkim’s Kritika Timsina Clinches Bronze at KIO Sub-Junior All India Karate Championship 2024
Kritika, hailing from Majhua Village in Rangang-Yangang, competed in the 10 years-25 kilograms Girls Kumite category
17th December 2024