KSCA had not appointed ombudsman, violated bylaws

BENGALURU: The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) is facing allegations of violating its bylaws by not appointing an ombudsman despite repeated notices from the state registrar of cooperative societies.

Social activist Marilinga Gowda Mallipatil filed a complaint with the District Registrar of Cooperative Societies on April 29, alleging that the KSCA had been violating its bylaws for several years by not appointing an ombudsman.

The ombudsman is to be responsible for overseeing the functioning of the KSCA, including appointments, financial transactions and resolving disputes. The absence of an ombudsman has raised concerns about the potential for irregularities and corruption within the organization.

The KSCA had reportedly written to a retired judge about appointing an Ombudsman in 2024, but no further action was taken. The failure to appoint an Ombudsman has sparked fears that the KSCA may be trying to hide something, and the incident has come to light amidst the controversy surrounding the recent stampede during the RCB victory celebration.

What is the scope of the Ombudsman’s role?

Every appointment made in KSCA should be brought to the notice of the ombudsman. The ombudsman works as one who provides solutions to problems related to the appointment of office-bearers, staff recruitment, financial transactions and other issues that may arise.

If there is any malpractice in the selection process of cricket players, an aggrieved player can directly approach the ombudsman and file a complaint. In that case, the ombudsman has the authority to question or provide information outside.

Moreover, if there are any irregularities committed by office bearers in the tender process conducted by KSCA, the ombudsman has the authority to investigate if a complaint is received. It seems that KSCA is not appointing an Ombudsman because they fear that all these irregularities will be exposed.

Social activist Marilinga Gowda said, “The KSCA lied to the BCCI that it had appointed an ombudsman. Whatever they presented to the retired judge about appointing an Ombudsman was just a request letter, not an appointment letter. It misled the public to cover up its fault. If any ombudsman is appointed, let them show their appointment details, including the person’s name, email, contact number and salary details. If KSCA fails to provide information, there are many chances of a tussle between the cricket body and the government”.