NEW DELHI, APRIL 22: A day after a bribery scandal forced K Jothikumaran to quit as secretary general of the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF), pressure mounted on K P S Gill to quit as its chief with new Sports Minister M S Gill saying there was need for change in the administration of the game.

“In full consideration of the situation facing Indian hockey and the national need, I urge him (K P S Gill) to consider withdrawing from his current responsibility. It is time to let other Indians make an attempt to lift our hockey,” Gill said.

The Minister made it clear that there could be no return for Jothikumaran after the incident. “I do not agree with the IHF president’s formulation that his (Jothikumaran) resignation is till the inquiry clearance. Jothikumaran has been secretary general since 1994 and faith in him has now been shattered,” he said.

This is perhaps for the first time that the government has openly indicated its displeasure over the functioning of the IHF. Until now, it had taken refuge under the Olympic Charter — it states that national federations must be autonomous and free from government interference — despite providing huge funds. The issue was also raised in Parliament.

K P S Gill, on his part, refused comment on the Minister’s statement. “I am not here to answer telephone calls,” was his reply when he was asked whether he would step down.

While the government can only suggest, the actual power of taking any action against the IHF rests with the Indian Olympic Association which has called a meeting next Monday to discuss the issue.