HCA Suspends President and Officials Amid Fraud and Misappropriation Allegations

The Hyderabad Cricket Association has suspended its president A. Jagan Mohan Rao and two other officials, R. Devraj and C.J. Srinivas Rao, following allegations of fraud, cheating, and misappropriation of funds. The suspensions were made in accordance with the HCA's Memorandum of Association and Rules and Regulations (2018). The decision came after the Crime Investigation Department arrested the officials earlier this month under various sections of the Indian Penal Code.

The Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) has taken swift action by suspending its president, A. Jagan Mohan Rao, along with secretary R. Devraj and treasurer C.J. Srinivas Rao, following allegations of fraud, cheating, and misappropriation of funds. The suspensions were announced on July 31, 2023, by the Apex Council of the HCA following an emergency meeting [1].

The decision to suspend the officials was made in accordance with the HCA's Memorandum of Association and Rules and Regulations (2018), specifically under Rules 41(6) and 15(4)(d) [2]. The move comes after the Crime Investigation Department arrested the officials earlier this month, charging them under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including Sections 465, 468, 471, 403, 409, 420, and 34 [1].

The HCA's statement emphasized the association's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability. The action was taken in the interest of safeguarding the association's credibility and ensuring due process [2].

In the absence of the suspended officials, vice-president Daljeet Singh is currently serving as the acting president. The investigating agencies, including the CID and ED, are continuing their probe into the allegations [2].

The suspensions underscore the importance of robust governance and transparency in sports organizations, particularly in the context of financial management. As the investigation progresses, the HCA will need to maintain its focus on integrity and accountability to rebuild trust among its stakeholders.

References:
[1] https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/hca-president-secretary-and-treasurer-suspended/article69879398.ece
[2] https://www.cricbuzz.com/cricket-news/135179/hyderabad-cricket-association-suspends-its-top-three-elected-officials