The tumultuous internal strife within the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA) seems to be nearing an end, thanks to the intervention of the High Court of Tripura. The warring factions, led by TCA President Tapan Lodh and Secretary Tapash Ghosh, have agreed to set aside their differences and collaborate for the advancement of cricket within the state.
The dispute, which had taken an unsavory turn recently, prompted some TCA members to approach the High Court with a petition. In response, Justice Arindam Lodh, after assessing the gravity of the situation, orchestrated a conciliatory meeting between the rival groups within his chambers. During this engagement, both parties had the opportunity to present their perspectives before the judge.
Justice Lodh’s meticulous deliberation on the matters at hand prompted him to urge both feuding factions to relinquish their animosity and adopt a constructive approach towards fostering cricket within the state. This mediation proved effective, as the group led by Secretary Tapash Ghosh and former Ranji Cricketer Timir Chanda expressed their willingness to cooperate with the ongoing SIT (Special Investigation Team) probe into the alleged Rs 16 crore floodlight installation scandal.
Following extensive consultations and discussions overseen by Justice Lodh, a breakthrough was achieved. Both parties pledged to reconcile their differences and collaborate for the betterment of cricket in Tripura, aligning with the very purpose for which they were elected to the TCA. A significant outcome of this resolution is the commitment to cease factional conflicts within the cricket body.
A pivotal decision emerged from the discussions, indicating the appointment of an Ombudsman within the TCA. This Ombudsman will also serve as the Ethics Officer, ensuring transparency and adherence to ethical standards. As per a directive from the Supreme Court, the Ombudsman is expected to be a retired High Court Judge.
In a display of dedication to this newly forged path, both factions have agreed to make a joint appearance at the High Court once again, further solidifying their commitment. Meanwhile, the governing body of the TCA, led by President Tapan Lodh, is scheduled to convene a meeting to deliberate on these developments and update the High Court on the agreed-upon resolutions.
Justice Arindam Lodh emphasized that the High Court would continue to closely monitor the progress of the TCA.
