The Indian Golf Union (IGU) has placed Sundeep Verma, a senior governing council member, on suspension pending an investigation into alleged misconduct during the Paris Olympics.
The decision, which took effect on August 30, 2024, has sparked a heated debate as Verma strongly refutes the charges against him.
In a statement, IGU President Brijender Singh confirmed the suspension, citing “serious misconduct” linked to Verma’s role in the Indian contingent at the Paris Games.
However, Singh did not elaborate on the specifics of the alleged misconduct, merely indicating that an inquiry would take between one to two weeks to complete.
Sources suggested to PTI that the charges against Verma revolve around claims that he used a false accreditation to participate in the Olympics’ opening ceremony. Verma, however, has adamantly denied these accusations.
In a statement, he described the allegations as “baseless,” asserting that he had all necessary permissions and was properly accredited for the event.
“I had all the required permissions and my name was on the list of people authorized to attend the ceremony,” Verma said. “There were numerous security checks, and I was not involved in any impersonation. I have also sent a legal notice to the IGU.”
Despite Verma’s denials, Singh insists that the IGU possesses substantial evidence to support the charges. “We have enough evidence to justify the suspension and the need for a thorough investigation,” Singh stated, adding that the evidence includes both visual and audio documentation.
The IGU has yet to comment on these accusations. The ongoing investigation is expected to clarify the situation and determine the next steps for both Verma and the IGU.