Shillong, July 23: The ongoing factional dispute within the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA) has taken a dangerous turn, with both groups accusing each other of corruption and unlawful activities. To prevent potential clashes, a large contingent of police has been stationed at the TCA office.
Former state cricket team captain and current TCA Vice-President, Timir Chanda, alleged that he and Secretary Tapash Ghosh were physically assaulted by members of the opposing faction while trying to enter the association building. Chanda and Ghosh pointed fingers at ‘former’ TCA President Tapan Lodh, claiming he was behind the attack.
As per IANS, in a notification issued on Saturday night, Ghosh stated that the Apex Council of TCA had officially disqualified Tapan Lodh as President on July 19, citing violations of the association’s rules and regulations.
The two rival factions are led by TCA ‘President’ Tapan Lodh and Secretary Tapas Ghosh.
Ghosh also raised concerns about the safety of important documents after the lock of the TCA building was reportedly broken by Lodh and his supporters. The incident occurred in the presence of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate.
Amid the chaos, a meeting led by Lodh was held, during which it was decided to initiate an inquiry into alleged irregularities in the installation of floodlights at the MBB cricket stadium.
Lodh responded by demanding the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Tripura police to look into the said irregularities. He contested any official notification of his removal from the position of TCA President, claiming that the law does not allow for such revocations.
Lodh intends to escalate the matter to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for further resolution.