Bembem Devi, Bhaichung Bhutia are included in the roster. (X)
\n\nThe All India Football Federation (AIFF) has published its roster of Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOM) for the 2026 elections. The roster consists of 40 former India internationals (20 men and 20 women), who will now have a formal place in the federation's governance structure.
\n\nDated November 3, 2026, the roster has been signed by AIFF Deputy Secretary General M Satyanarayan and Electoral Officer Rajeev Sharma. According to the document, the roster has been prepared in 'strict compliance with due process and all prescribed provisions, statutory mandates, and regulatory requirements under the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, National Sports Governance Rules, 2026 and the Bye laws of AIFF.'
\n\nObjections can be emailed to the electoral officer within seven days.
\n\nThe men's SOM list consists of former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia, Bruno Coutinho, and IM Vijayan. The likes of Climax Lawrence, Abdul Majeed Kakroo, KV Dhanesh and Raman Vijayan are also included in the list. K Ajayan is the youngest in the men's list.
\n\nSportsperson of outstanding merit (Men)
\n\nThe women's list is headed by former India captain Oinam Bembem Devi. It also consists of Aditi Chauhan, Ashalata Devi and Bentla…
Original source: https://www.timesnownews.com/sports
