Randhir supporters Tytler, Gehlot withdraw from IOA elections

New Delhi: A day after Randhir Singh withdrew his candidature for the post of Indian Olympic Association President, several of his supporters on Monday pulled out of contests for various positions ahead of the elections to be held on December 5.

Kabaddi Federation of India President J S Gehlot withdrew his candidature for the lone post of senior vice-president, leaving the field clear for Virender Nanavati, who belongs to the faction of Abhay Singh Chautala, to get elected unopposed. Long-time Judo Federation of India President Jagdish Tytler, National Rifle Association of India chief Raninder Singh and Assam Olympic Association General Secretary Rockybul Hussain also took back their nominations for the posts of vice-presidents. Judo Federation of India General Secretary Mukesh Kumar also withdrew his nominations for the important post of IOA Secretary General which was earlier held by Randhir. Others who withdrew their candidature include Onkar Singh and Sunaina Kumari for Joint Secretary`s posts while John Kharshing, Sharda Murdia and Raja Sidhu pulled out of the race for Executive Council Members. On Sunday, Randhir Singh withdrew from the race for the high-profile IOA president`s post, citing International Olympic Committee`s warning to disaffiliate India if the polls are held under the government`s Sports Code. That cleared the decks for Abhay Singh Chautala to be elected unopposed for the president`s post while also putting an end to the bitter and acrimonious campaign between the rival factions. PTI