In a pivotal moment for Indian football’s governance framework, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) Appeals Committee has put the relegation of two I-League clubs—Delhi FC and SC Bengaluru—on temporary hold. This decision, which emerged as part of a legal challenge from Delhi FC, signals a critical juncture in how disciplinary actions and relegation policies are interpreted and enforced in the Indian football ecosystem.
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Legal Challenge Shakes I-League Relegation Outcome
The controversy began after Delhi FC, having finished at the bottom of the 2024–25 I-League standings, was handed relegation in accordance with a May 15, 2025, Disciplinary Committee verdict. Disagreeing with the ruling, Delhi FC filed an appeal claiming the decision lacked both procedural integrity and constitutional alignment. Represented by advocate Mr. Shivam Singh, the club argued that significant provisions under the AIFF Disciplinary Code—namely Article 2.1.6 in conjunction with Article 73—were neglected.
Moreover, the club highlighted violations of Article 19 of the Indian Constitution, pointing out the broader implications that such administrative actions could have on fundamental rights. This combination of procedural and constitutional arguments persuaded the Appeals Committee to intervene, pausing the relegation until a comprehensive hearing can be conducted.
Appeals Committee Acknowledges Procedural Flaws
The AIFF Appeals Committee, led by Hon’ble Justice (Retd.) Rajesh Tandon and comprising members Mr. Ashok K. Tripathi and advocate Priyanka Mishra, expressed concerns over the process followed. According to the interim order, “the team which goes to the inferior position has a right to challenge the same,” reinforcing the notion that affected parties are entitled to due process before such impactful decisions are enforced.
The committee questioned the abrupt nature of the demotion, noting that AIFF had in the past exempted clubs from relegation under exceptional circumstances. This absence of consistency, they suggested, undermined the legitimacy of the current decision.
AIFF Granted Time to Respond
The governing body has been given two days to file formal objections against the appeal. Highlighting the potential legal and reputational ramifications, the Appeals Committee remarked that relegation without procedural safeguards could result in “serious penal consequences.”
In their interim statement, the committee declared that “any order passed for relegation shall remain in abeyance and shall not be acted upon till the final hearing of the appeals itself.” This temporary pause ensures that Delhi FC and SC Bengaluru retain their I-League status until the next scheduled hearing.
Delhi FC’s Determination to Stay Afloat
The New Delhi-based club is rallying behind what it considers a critical fight for fairness. The appeal underscores not just a bid to retain top-tier status but also a broader push for accountability within Indian football’s administrative apparatus.
Delhi FC’s contention that their demotion was “disproportionate and lacked procedural fairness” casts a spotlight on the challenges smaller clubs face when navigating federation decisions.
Hearing Scheduled for May 30 in New Delhi
The next chapter of this evolving case will unfold on May 30, 2025, at 12:30 PM, when the Appeals Committee will hear the matter in detail at their New Delhi headquarters. The outcome could have far-reaching implications, potentially altering how relegation policies are interpreted and implemented across Indian football competitions going forward.
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FAQs
Why did the AIFF halt Delhi FC and SC Bengaluru’s relegation?
The AIFF Appeals Committee halted the relegation after Delhi FC challenged the Disciplinary Committee’s decision, citing constitutional violations and procedural lapses.
What is the new date for the relegation hearing of Delhi FC and SC Bengaluru?
The AIFF Appeals Committee scheduled the final hearing for May 30, 2025, at 12:30 PM in New Delhi.
Who is representing Delhi FC in the relegation appeal case?
Advocate Mr. Shivam Singh is representing Delhi FC, arguing that the relegation violated AIFF’s Disciplinary Code and Article 19 of the Constitution.
What did the AIFF Appeals Committee say about the relegation process?
The committee stated that “the team which goes to the inferior position has a right to challenge the same,” and criticized the lack of reference to past precedents.
What happens to Delhi FC and SC Bengaluru until the final verdict?
Both clubs will remain in the I-League temporarily, as the committee kept the relegation order in abeyance until the appeal concludes.
