The All-India Football Federation (AIFF)  is the governing body of football, futsal and beach soccer in India. It is a member of FIFA and is affiliated with the Asian Football Confederation and South Asian Football Federation. It is affiliated with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.

Recently AIFF has approved it’s anti-sexual harassment (PoSH Policy) in compliance with the The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (PoSH). The AIFF executive committee’s decision, which was made following careful consideration, demonstrates the federation’s dedication to promoting a secure and welcoming atmosphere within the football community. The PoSH Policy was created in compliance with the PoSH Act 2013 and reviewed by the AIFF legal team with the goal of preventing sexual harassment and misconduct.

Recently,  accusations were made against Deepak Sharma (secretary-general of the Himachal Pradesh Football Association) by two female football players, who claim that they were physically attacked on March 28 by him. In relation to the incident, Goa Police detained Deepak Sharma, who is also the owner of the Himachal Pradesh-based football team Khad FC.

There have been other instances involving claims of harassment within the AIFF before. In the past, a female worker at the AIFF headquarters verbally reported a male coworker for harassment, but no formal charges were brought.

The AIFF took proactive measures to address these incidents and establish an environment of respect and accountability within the organization by implementing the PoSH Policy. According to  M Satyanarayan, the acting secretary general of the AIFF, the  PoSH policy is built in a way where it possible for it to evolve with time, according to the policy in order to continuously remind the members of the PoSH policy, an expert in the field will carry out training at least three times a year.

The AIFF’s commitment to promoting a safe and harassment-free environment reflects its dedication to upholding ethical standards and ensuring the well-being of all individuals involved in Indian football. By taking proactive measures to address allegations and prevent future incidents, the AIFF is striving to uphold the integrity of the sport and protect the rights of its participants.

-By Anaida Khan Pursuing 4th year of BALLB (Hons.) from Dharmashashtra National Law University, Jabalpur.

Know more – Draft Template POSH Policy