Shabroz Malik
Pattan, October 25; In a unified stand, 31 football clubs from DFA Zone Pattan announced a vote of no confidence in the current leadership of the zone within the Jammu and Kashmir Football Association (JKFA). Represented by Mr. Bashir Ahmad Bhat, Senior President of Central Football Club Pattan, the clubs voiced deep concern over alleged neglect by President Gulzar Ahmad and Secretary Jhon Mohammad Parray, who were elected in 2023.
The clubs accused the leadership of failing to organize official tournaments in the Pattan region and of focusing on internal politics rather than supporting youth engagement and football development. Zone Pattan, which has actively promoted football since joining the JKFA in 2018, has provided youth opportunities to participate in significant tournaments like the Police Martyrs Tournament and the State Championship, as well as hosting several local tournaments.
At the core of the dispute is an October 2, 2024 meeting where, without consulting the 31 clubs, the Secretary signed a “One District, One Vote” resolution. This resolution, proposed by court-appointed facilitators, including Prof. B.A. Shah, reduced the voting power of Zone Pattan’s clubs. Club representatives argue that this move violates the JKFA Constitution, which guarantees equal voting rights for all member clubs.
In response, DFA Zone Pattan’s clubs have resolved to form an ad-hoc committee to protect their rights, pursue legal action, and ensure adherence to the JKFA Constitution. Mr. Bashir Ahmad Bhat, speaking on behalf of the clubs, stated, “We will not allow anyone to take away what we have fought hard to build.”
