All India Football Federation (AIFF) President Kalyan Chaubey has addressed accusations of harassment and “heckling” made by woman Executive Committee member Valanka Alemao. Alemao, also part of the FIFA Women’s Development Committee, wrote to FIFA seeking an inquiry into the issue.
Chaubey, in response to the allegations, questioned the meaning of ‘heckle’ and emphasized that the boardroom where the incident allegedly occurred had 13 EC members present. He denied any wrongdoing and highlighted the dignified presence of respected members during the meeting.
Alemao had initially written to AIFF, alleging that Chaubey, along with other officials, had targeted her with disrespectful remarks and raised their voices in an intimidating manner. Chaubey defended his stance, stating that no harassment or discrimination occurred during the meeting.
The controversy arose from an executive committee meeting discussing the National Sports Governance Act and a significant 20-year commercial bid for the federation. Chaubey clarified that the meeting focused solely on these agenda points, with no other discussions taking place.
