PT Usha Denies Claims of Faulty Sponsorship Deal, Threatens Legal Action

PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), dismisses allegations by treasurer Sahdev Yadav that a sponsorship agreement with Reliance India Limited (RIL) caused a loss of Rs 24 crore. She claims the accusations aim to tarnish her reputation and commits to legal action against misinformation.

The Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha has vigorously denied claims by treasurer Sahdev Yadav that a faulty sponsorship deal with Reliance India Limited resulted in a Rs 24 crore loss to the organization. In a press release and subsequent statement, Usha characterized the allegations as baseless and a deliberate effort to damage her reputation.

Usha emphasized that due protocol was followed in the formulation of the agreement, which she says was circulated among the Executive Council members and had involvement from key figures, including Rohit Rajpal of the Sponsorship Committee. However, a CAG report suggests that additional rights to RIL were improperly awarded through an amended deal. Usha contends the process was transparent and legally sound, orchestrated under the guidance of sports lawyer Nandan Kamath.

She expressed surprise at the IOA's Finance Committee's decision to remove Kamath shortly after revising the agreement. PT Usha asserts that all actions were in the best interest of the IOA and Indian athletes, affirming that no financial harm was done. She stated that any further attempts to mislead the public would invite legal proceedings.

(With inputs from agencies.)