The Supreme Court has asked the Centre to play a ‘proactive role’ in matters to hold the Under-17 Women’s World Cup in India and facilitate lifting the suspension of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) by the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA). In response, the Centre told the apex that it has held two meetings with FIFA and that efforts are being made to break some ice on holding the World Cup in India.
Yesterday, FIFA suspended AIFF with immediate effect citing ‘undue influence from third parties.’ According to FIFA, the appointment of the Committee of Administrators (CoA) is considered as third-party interference. Following the suspension, the Centre yesterday sought an urgent hearing of the matter in the Supreme Court. FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2022 is scheduled to take place in India from 11th to 30th October.