Sacked Ba Football coach Ravinesh Kumar says he did not sign a formal contract with the Association and as such, has not received any formal letter or email directly notifying him of the termination of his appointment.
Kumar, in a statement, has thanked Ba Football Association, particularly its President, for the opportunity to serve as Head Coach, adding that it has been a privilege to work with the players, staff and supporters of a club with such a proud history.
He says winning four major titles in ten months is an achievement he will always cherish.
Kumar says those successes were a collective effort, and he remains grateful to everyone who contributed.
He says he had initially chosen not to respond publicly to the allegations circulating about him, however, their volume and seriousness have made it necessary to clarify his position and place the relevant circumstances on record.
He says on Sunday, 18th October, Ba FA issued a public statement announcing the termination of his role as Head Coach.
Kumar says the association subsequently indicated that it would not comment further because of privacy concerns.
He says he respects the importance of confidentiality and professionalism.
The former coach says although Ba FA has publicly referred to the “termination of his contract”, he has clarified that he took up the role as circumstances arose and did not sign a formal written employment contract with the association.
He says as of today, he has not received any formal letter or email directly notifying him of the termination of his appointment.
Kumar says a decision of this significance should, in his view, have been communicated to him formally and directly before being announced publicly.
He says if privacy is the reason for declining further comment, that principle should be respected consistently.
The former coach says it is difficult to reconcile that position with the extensive allegations circulating publicly, including comments from individuals whom, he understands, to be closely associated with the President and the wider Ba football community.
He is urging that his decision to exercise restraint not be treated as acceptance of those allegations, adding he is entitled to a fair opportunity to respond.
While raising concerns about the pattern of negative social media commentary, including anonymous posts and reels, Kumar says some of this activity has caused him to question whether it is coordinated.
However, he says he cannot independently verify whether any posts have been organised or paid for, or who may be responsible.
Kumar says what is clear is the distress caused by repeated public accusations and personal attacks.
He says these developments reinforce the concerns about professionalism, respect and sensitivity previously raised by his wife.
Kumar says of particular concern are the personal messages and attacks now being directed at members of his family, including by individuals he understand to be Ba FA officials or closely associated with the association.
He stresses whatever differences may exist concerning his role as head coach, his family should not be subjected to personal attacks.
Kumar is asking that this conduct stop immediately.
The former coach further says that throughout his time with Ba FC, he maintained a cordial and brotherly relationship with the President.
He says in that spirit, he also raised with club President Praneel Dayaal the importance of celebrating Ba’s achievements while respecting other teams and districts.
Kumar says football should bring communities together and success on the field should be celebrated with pride, humility and good sportsmanship, without belittling others.
He says these are values he believes Ba FA should continue to represent.
Kumar says he worked closely with the President on various matters concerning the presentation of Ba football to the wider community.
He says that history of collaboration and mutual respect makes the events of the past weekend particularly disappointing.
Kumar also says that his purpose in issuing this statement is to express his appreciation for the opportunity to serve Ba FA, clarify the circumstances surrounding the public announcement and respond to the commentary directed at him and his family.
He stresses that he remains proud of what they achieved together and grateful to the players, staff and supporters who stood with the team.
Kumar is asking that everyone involved approach this matter with professionalism, fairness and respect, and allow any outstanding issues to be addressed through direct and appropriate communication.
He adds he will not comment further on any allegations made by anyone on social media as he awaits formal correspondence from Ba FA and will respond accordingly upon receipt.
Further questions have been sent to Dayal.
Further questions have been sent to Dayal.
