The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) elections have been deferred to December 30. They were originally scheduled to be held on November 30. An electoral officer of the KSCA said that the “elections cannot be conducted at this stage without removing the doubts among members.”
The postponement comes in the backdrop of a case filed in court challenging the eligibility criteria. Venkatesh Prasad, who is set to contest against KN Shanth Kumar, Director of The Printers Pvt. Limited, voiced his displeasure at a press meet. “We were stunned to learn that the elections have been deferred to December 30,” he said. “The primary focus here should be cricket, not politics. We are not participating for political reasons. Our sole objective is to revive top-level cricket at Chinnaswamy Stadium, to bring back international matches and IPL fixtures. That is our mission.”
Prasad further said, “These elections must take place. That is the natural course of action. KSCA is at a pivotal juncture and needs change. Cricket is suffering right now, and the season is already underway. It is vital for elections to proceed so that a fresh committee can implement its vision. We have no issues with the Election Commission and fully respect their decisions. However, this postponement has come as a complete surprise.”
Vinay Mruthyunjaya, who is contesting for the post of secretary, added, “The responsibility to conduct elections rests squarely with the Managing Committee. They are directly accountable for this delay. The Electoral Officer sent two letters to the Managing Committee on the 14th and 15th but received no reply until today — only this morning did he get a response.
“I place responsibility entirely on the Managing Committee. The confusion has been orchestrated, leading to this outcome. We urge all KSCA members to take this issue seriously and demand an end to this undemocratic approach to governance.”
