New Delhi:
The Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) has constituted a three-member enquiry committee and suspended its Secretary General, Kamlesh Mehta, amid allegations of governance lapses and financial irregularities, the federation confirmed on Saturday.
In a detailed clarification, the national governing body said the action against Mehta—an Arjuna awardee and former international paddler—was based purely on procedural and financial concerns identified during an internal review, dismissing claims that the move was driven by internal politics.
Show-Cause Notice and Enquiry Process
The decision was unanimously taken by the TTFI Executive Committee, headed by President Meghna Ahlawat, following what the federation described as an “exhaustive and record-based examination” of recent administrative actions.
As part of the disciplinary process:
A three-member enquiry committee has been formed to investigate the alleged violations and submit its findings.
Mehta has been issued, or will be issued, a show-cause notice, giving him an opportunity to present his defence.
During the enquiry period, Mehta has been declared persona non grata by the Executive Committee.
Key Allegations Highlighted
According to TTFI, the allegations include:
The unilateral convening of a Special General Meeting (SGM) on January 17 despite a duly notified Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for January 28.
Conducting business during the SGM that was allegedly impermissible under the federation’s constitution.
Financial decisions flagged by auditors, including unauthorised disbursement of funds for events such as the Vadodara WTT Feeder, bypassing established financial protocols.
Alleged conflicts of interest arising from Mehta’s past association with private entities connected to the sport.
Internal Dissent and Administrative Fallout
Mehta has contested the federation’s actions, claiming he became aware of his suspension through media reports and was not formally notified. He has also alleged that his access to official TTFI communication channels was curtailed without prior notice.
The controversy reflects deeper factional divisions within the federation, with tensions between President Ahlawat and Mehta persisting since their election in December 2022. The dispute has intensified as TTFI moves towards future elections and broader governance reforms.
Latest Administrative Decisions at AGM
At its recent Annual General Meeting, the federation also approved several key administrative measures:
A proposed hike of approximately 10% in prize money for national championships to benefit domestic players.
Plans to launch an official TTFI League with transparent bidding processes following the expiry of the current commercial arrangement.
Removal of Senior Vice-President Dr. Dhevanathan Yadav from his position in line with governance compliance norms.
What Lies Ahead
The findings of the enquiry committee will determine whether further disciplinary action is warranted against Mehta or whether structural reforms are recommended to strengthen governance within the federation. TTFI has reiterated that all decisions taken are aimed at ensuring transparency, collective decision-making, and safeguarding the long-term interests of Indian table tennis.
Discussion about this post