Former Indian skipper Bhaichung Bhutia, also a member of the All India Football Federation’s executive committee, has held the AIFF’s current body responsible for the decline in the national team’s performance in recent times.

Bhutia came down heavily on the AIFF, saying the absence of a roadmap for Indian football has resulted in a humiliating defeat at the hands of Syria (0-3) and a tame draw against Mauritius (0-0) in the recently held three-nation Intercontinental Cup at home.

The former India captain demanded an overhaul of the AIFF administration.

While speaking to PTI on Friday, he explained, “I think it’s not a great sign, we have been on the decline for quite some time now. From being ranked in the top 100 to going down at 125. I think football needs a new governing body and election and a fresh start. Otherwise, I think it’s only going down.” 

He added, “I think there has to be really serious discussion, thorough debate that has to be done for taking the game forward. I think that our constitution has to be reformed although the case is still in the Supreme Court.

Bhaichung mentioned precisely, “I hope the Supreme Court gives a verdict as soon as possible. The federation has to have a new constitution and a new body, a new election has to happen. The federation should stop doing NGO kind of work.”