Clarify need for forensic audit, act against person(s) if found guilty: Chess Players Forum official to AICF (Ld)

Chess Players Forum Demands Clarity on AICF’s Decision for Forensic Audit of Accounts

Chennai, Feb 19 (IANS) – The Chess Players Forum has raised concerns over the All India Chess Federation’s (AICF) decision to conduct a forensic audit of its accounts, demanding transparency and clarity on the reasons behind this move.

International Master (IM) V. Saravanan, Joint Secretary of the Chess Players Forum, has called for the AICF to openly state the reasons for the forensic audit and the financial irregularities that necessitate such a probe. He emphasized that if allegations turn out to be true, severe action should be taken against the guilty party.

AICF’s plans for the forensic audit stem from reported missing papers at its office, as confirmed by AICF’s Interim Secretary Ajeet Kumar Verma. The decision to appoint an external auditor for the audit was made during the AICF’s General Body meeting held on December 28 in Guwahati.

Meanwhile, the Chess Players Forum is also concerned about infighting within the AICF, especially as five players are set to compete in the Candidates Tournament in Canada. Former AICF Secretary Bharat Singh Chauhan, on the other hand, has refuted claims of financial irregularities during his tenure, stating that all accounts were clean and approved at the Annual General Meeting.

The issue of legal expenses has also come under the spotlight, with AICF’s spending on legal matters amounting to a significant sum. The Chess Players Forum has stressed the need for AICF’s funds to be utilized for the development of the game and the players, rather than being embroiled in legal battles.

Renowned Chess Grandmaster (GM) Pravin Thipsay has outlined a set of expectations for the AICF, including proposals for supporting players through coaching camps and high prize money tournaments, as well as measures to enhance the standard of chess coaching in schools and academies.

As the AICF faces scrutiny over its financial management and internal discord, stakeholders are hoping for a more transparent, player-centric approach from the federation. With the competitive landscape of chess being at the forefront, the AICF will need to address these concerns and ensure a conducive environment for the growth and development of the game.

The concerns raised by the Chess Players Forum and other stakeholders underscore the need for greater accountability and transparency within the All India Chess Federation, as it navigates through this challenging period.

–IANS
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