'Match-fixing' scandal engulfs Indian football after CBI puts five clubs under scanner

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has reportedly registered a preliminary inquiry into allegations of match-fixing and suspected irregularities in the investments of football clubs. As per inputs, the CBI recently paid a visit to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) headquarters in Delhi in order to carry out a probe.

In fact, during their recent visit to the AIFF headquarters, the CBI has also asked for more data on five football clubs which are under investigation. Besides, the CBI continues to seek further information about investments in clubs in the alleged match-fixing case.

“CBI registers preliminary enquiry in alleged football fixing case. CBI visited Delhi based All India Football Federation (AIFF) HQs recently and asked for more information about the clubs and their investments in connection with alleged match-fixing in football: Sources,” ANI tweeted on Monday. Reports suggest that at least five Indian football clubs allegedly received huge chunks of money from an international fixer.

Past instances of match-fixing in Indian football

It is pertinent to mention that Goa’s top division league, the Goa Professional League was previously linked with match-fixing allegations in 2020. As per Goal,  total of six matches played in the tournament during the 2019-20 season were red-flagged by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) for manipulation. The matches held between October 16 and November 19, 2019, were linked with clear and overwhelming betting evidence which led to the games being influenced with a view to gain betting profits.

The six matches involved seven clubs which are, Calangute Association, Panjim Footballers, Guardian Angel Sports Club, FC Goa II, Dempo SC, Salgaocar FC and Sporting Clube de Goa. However, the Goa Football Association (GFA) denied the allegations after looking into the matter. In their reply to AIFF integrity officer, GFA general secretary Jovito Lopes named a company linked to an online betting site, but said GFA has no confirmation about the match fixing.

Further back during the 2018-19 I-League second division, Manipur-based club TRAU found themselves in the headlines for wrong reasons. The club was linked with allegations of fixing after Mohammedan Sporting complained to AIFF that a match between Chhinga Veng FC and TRAU was completely fixed. During the 2017-18 I-League second division, Kerala FC were also linked with match fixing allegations.

In a letter to AIFF, Fateh Hyderabad has complained that the results of two games player between FC Kerala and Kerala Blasters were manipulated. As per goal, FC Kerala put out a statement and said, “The FC Kerala management has been informed of a media report alleging two of our 2nd Division I-League matches were rigged. Not only is the report factually incorrect, but also malicious in its commentary."