Jammu, Nov 1 (JKNS): In a landmark direction to end years of administrative paralysis in Jammu and Kashmir’s cricket governance, the Supreme Court on Friday ordered that elections to the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) be completed within 12 weeks.
As per news agency JKNS, The apex court appointed former Chief Election Commissioner Achal Kumar Jyoti to supervise the process as per the approved JKCA Constitution, directing the BCCI to immediately hand over the final constitution to facilitate the exercise.
The Court made it clear that the pending registration of JKCA cannot be used as an excuse to delay or obstruct the electoral process. The entire exercise from notification to declaration of results must be concluded by mid-January 2026.
The Supreme Court’s directive has revived hopes of democratic revival in the state’s cricketing body, which has remained mired in controversies, factionalism, and allegations of manipulation for over a decade. However, many insiders remain wary, cautioning that unless elections are conducted transparently and insulated from entrenched interests, the old system of control may simply re-emerge under new faces.
Over the years, JKCA has been dogged by accusations of nepotism, opaque selections, and financial irregularities, with several stakeholders alleging that a select few individuals have monopolized decision-making. Critics point to repeated controversies over eligibility, forged documents, and manipulation of club memberships to suppress dissent and retain control.
“Elections must not become a tool for the same old power players to return,” said a senior club representative. Another added, “Real reform means empowering clubs and players, not rewarding influence.”
The Supreme Court’s order is being seen as a decisive opportunity to restore credibility, transparency, and fairness in the state’s cricket structure. But observers say the success of the process will depend on strict oversight, stakeholder vigilance, and genuine adherence to democratic norms.
The next 12 weeks are likely to determine whether JKCA’s long-troubled journey finally leads to reform or returns to the familiar cycle of influence and control that has long crippled J&K cricket. (JKNS)