Mokokchung, July 27 (MExN): The Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) has officially informed all affiliated clubs, academies, players, referees, and football stakeholders under its jurisdiction about a recent decision taken by the Executive Committee of the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The decision was made during the AIFF’s Executive Committee meeting held on June 6, 2024, in Kolkata.
The AIFF has expressed serious concern over the continued organisation of unauthorised and unregistered football tournaments across the country. The federation stated that such practices undermine the development and integrity of Indian football and often pose risks to players, clubs, referees, and the overall football ecosystem.
In response to these concerns, the AIFF Executive Committee adopted key resolutions aimed at regulating tournament participation and ensuring accountability within the football structure. The committee resolved that no AIFF-registered player, coach, or referee shall be allowed to participate in tournaments that are not authorised by the respective State Association or its affiliated district or taluk units.
The resolution further stated that in cases where any registered player, coach, or referee is found participating in unauthorised tournaments, the respective State Association will take strict disciplinary action under the provisions of its constitution and by-laws, once complaints are received from clubs, academies, or affiliated units.
In addition, all State Associations and their district affiliates have been advised to develop and enforce their own tournament registration policies. The AIFF instructed that any organisation or private party intending to organise a football tournament must obtain prior permission from the respective district and/or state football association. Such tournaments must fulfil specific conditions including the requirement that only registered clubs or academies may participate, players must be officially registered with these clubs, only AIFF-licensed referees may officiate matches, and organising bodies must ensure full security and protection for all players and officials.
In light of these directives, the MDFA has urged all stakeholders within Mokokchung district to comply strictly with the AIFF’s decisions and coordinate with the association before participating in or organising any football tournament. The MDFA stated that these measures are necessary to ensure the safety of players, uphold the credibility of competitions, and contribute to the overall advancement of football in the district and beyond.
