Kohima: The Kohima District Football Association (KDFA) has formally announced its decision to withhold cooperation from the upcoming 9th Captain N. Kenguruse Memorial Championship, citing a continuing dispute involving the President of KDFA and the organizing body, Assam Rifles. The association emphasised that its non-cooperation will continue until the matter is satisfactorily resolved.
The dispute dates back to the 8th edition of the tournament in 2024, when the KDFA President raised concerns over a two-week delay in disbursing cash rewards to winning teams. In response, an Assam Rifles officer, Assistant Commandant N. N. Singh, allegedly resorted to verbal abuse, calling the KDFA President derogatory names including “bastard.” KDFA described the incident as deeply shocking and said that the matter remains unresolved.
Despite the ongoing disagreement, Assam Rifles has proceeded with preparations for the 9th Edition without seeking KDFA’s permission or acknowledgment—fueling further discontent.
KDFA has repeatedly raised objections to several football tournaments being conducted in its jurisdiction without authorization from the Association. These unauthorized events undermine the authority of KDFA and the structure of football governance as guided by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and its affiliates.
At an AIFF Executive Committee meeting in Kolkata on June 6, 2024, explicit guidelines were issued: no AIFF-registered player, coach, or referee should participate in tournaments held without approval from the relevant state or district associations. Breaches of this rule could lead to disciplinary action by the respective governing bodies.
KDFA stressed that any private or third-party organization wishing to conduct tournaments must secure the necessary approval, involve only registered participants, employ licensed referees, and ensure safe conditions for players and officials.
In view of Assam Rifles’ actions and the lack of resolution on the prior incident, KDFA has taken a firm stance. No teams or registered players from Kohima district will be allowed to participate in the tournament. Participation without proper sanction will invite stern disciplinary action.
The association has also appealed to the Nagaland Football Association (NFA) for solidarity—urging it to defer the tournament until the dispute is settled and the KDFA President’s dignity is restored.
“As a sport built on respect, discipline, and integrity, football must uphold its values by recognizing authority and treating every official, leader, player, and referee with dignity,” stated KDFA in a press release.