Kalyan Chaubey Vows Relentless Effort to Secure OCI Players for Indian Football Team

The Indian football ecosystem has found itself amid rising scrutiny following the national team’s disappointing defeats against Hong Kong and Thailand. As frustration mounts over the Blue Tigers’ dwindling performances, fans and pundits alike have started raising a crucial demand—bringing Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) players into the national squad.

This growing sentiment is based on the observation that several lower-ranked nations have benefitted by utilizing players with heritage links to their countries, leading to stronger, more competitive squads. However, India’s strict citizenship and sports eligibility rules have historically prevented OCI athletes from representing the tricolor on international stages.

Now, All India Football Federation (AIFF) president Kalyan Chaubey has stepped up with a promising update, assuring that the governing body is actively working to unlock this pathway for Indian football’s resurgence.

Calls for Change After Humbling Defeats

Speaking to the media, Kalyan Chaubey provided much-needed clarity on AIFF’s stance regarding OCI representation in football. Addressing concerns, he remarked, “The fans and others have been asking about the OCI players. A lot of the countries ranked below India have used the process of naturalised players and are getting results.”

His statement underscores the stark reality that India risks being left behind in global football development unless swift, progressive steps are taken. As other nations strengthen their player pools through naturalisation, AIFF is determined not to let Indian football stagnate due to outdated policies.

Chaubey also revealed that the federation has already made direct contact with a pool of eligible players. “The AIFF are in contact with the 33 players who are eligible for the OCI card. Some of them have already received the card, and others, AIFF, are helping with the same. AIFF is trying their best and within their capacity to get the approval and include the players in the squad,” he confirmed.

Navigating Bureaucracy: AIFF’s Push with Government Authorities

Despite the enthusiasm from AIFF and supporters alike, the process remains heavily dependent on administrative channels. Kalyan Chaubey acknowledged that until the Indian government provides a formal nod, no further progress can be made regarding team inclusion.

“AIFF has commenced communication with various Government departments to allow OCI players to represent India. Initial response has been good, but the process will take time,” he explained.

The complexity stems from India’s stringent regulations around OCI citizens participating in national sports teams. While personal enthusiasm among officials might be evident, institutional hurdles remain. AIFF’s current efforts are focused on convincing various ministries and stakeholders of the long-term benefits such a move would bring to Indian football.

OCI Stars Waiting in the Wings

Several talented footballers of Indian descent are on the radar, eagerly awaiting a resolution to represent India on the international stage. Names like Blackburn Rovers’ seasoned defender Danny Batth and Heart of Midlothian’s dynamic midfielder Yan Dhanda stand out as prime candidates who could bolster the Indian lineup instantly.

However, as Chaubey emphasized, there is little that the AIFF Technical Committee can do without clearance. “Even if we make a list of 300 OCI players, we cannot go any further unless the green light is given. The AIFF Technical Committee can start their work only when the positive signal comes from the administration,” he clarified.

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