Agartala, 19th September 2026 : The position articulated by BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia after the Board’s Annual General Meeting has put the spotlight back on the governance of the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA), particularly over the applicability of the existing constitutional framework and the eligibility of its office-bearers.
Speaking to journalists after the BCCI AGM on September 18, Saikia said the BCCI would comply with the National Sports Governance Act once the required statutory process was completed and the necessary notification was issued. He said the BCCI would place its detailed clarification before the Supreme Court on October 27, when the matter is scheduled to come up again.
The statement assumes significance for the TCA because the BCCI and its affiliated state associations continue to function under their respective constitutional frameworks pending the implementation of the new statutory provisions. The BCCI’s official AGM release also confirms that its General Body conducted its affairs under the BCCI Constitution, including approval of accounts, the annual budget and other constitutional matters.
TCA Secretary Subrata Dey represented Tripura at the BCCI AGM. Saikia’s clarification has consequently raised questions over the explanation given by the TCA leadership to the people of Tripura regarding the present regulatory position of the association. Whether the TCA has correctly interpreted and implemented its own constitutional provisions is now likely to come under renewed scrutiny.
The controversy also brings the position of TCA President Tapan Lodh into focus. BCCI records show that Lodh’s eligibility to represent the TCA in the BCCI election had previously been challenged, with the association’s internal proceedings and the eligibility dispute forming part of the BCCI’s examination.
The latest developments therefore raise a fundamental question: if the TCA is required to function under its existing constitution until the new Sports Governance Act is formally made applicable, on what constitutional and legal basis can the continuation of its present office-bearers be justified?
The issue is particularly important because allegations have been raised within Tripura cricket circles regarding the functioning of the TCA leadership and the handling of its financial resources. Such allegations, however, would require documentary evidence and appropriate findings by competent authorities before they can be treated as established facts.
With the BCCI scheduled to clarify its position before the Supreme Court on October 27, the TCA’s governance structure, office-bearer eligibility and adherence to its constitutional provisions are likely to face renewed attention.
