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Table Tennis Federation Faces Financial Irregularity Probe

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 18:08 GMT by ThePrint
      Locales: Delhi, INDIA

New Delhi, February 16th, 2026 - The Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) is grappling with a major crisis as it investigates allegations of significant financial irregularities. The suspension of former Secretary General Dunlop Mehta has triggered a formal inquiry, raising serious questions about governance within the national sporting body and potentially disrupting preparations for key international tournaments.

Mehta's suspension, confirmed earlier this week, followed the filing of a police complaint detailing alleged financial discrepancies. While the specifics of these discrepancies remain under wraps pending investigation, the TTFI's swift action signals the seriousness with which it is treating the accusations. This isn't simply an accounting error; sources within the federation suggest a pattern of mismanagement and a concerning lack of transparency in how funds were allocated and utilized.

The TTFI has responded by establishing a three-member investigative committee tasked with a comprehensive audit of the federation's finances spanning the period from 2018-19 to 2022-23. Composed of respected former Indian table tennis players, the panel brings a degree of independence and understanding of the sport's ecosystem to the task. The choice of former players demonstrates an attempt to showcase a commitment to ethical behavior and rebuild trust. The committee's mandate is broad: to dissect all accounts, identify any irregularities, and ultimately determine the extent of any financial mismanagement.

"We are leaving no stone unturned in our quest for accountability," stated a TTFI official, speaking on condition of anonymity. "The committee has been given full access to all relevant financial records and has the authority to summon individuals for questioning. We anticipate a detailed report within one month, and we pledge to take decisive action based on its findings."

This investigation arrives at a particularly sensitive juncture for Indian table tennis. The nation is gearing up to host the Asian Table Tennis Championships in July and will shortly thereafter participate in the prestigious World Table Tennis Championships. The potential for scandal to overshadow these events, or even worse, to derail player preparations due to funding disruptions, is a major concern.

The implications extend beyond mere financial accountability. The allegations have already prompted questions about the broader governance structure of the TTFI. Critics argue that a lack of independent oversight and robust internal controls created an environment where such irregularities could flourish. There are calls for a complete overhaul of the federation's financial management processes, including the implementation of stricter auditing procedures and greater transparency in decision-making.

Furthermore, the scandal casts a shadow over the athletes themselves. Players dedicate their lives to the sport, and they rely on the TTFI to provide the necessary resources and support to compete at the highest level. Any financial mismanagement directly impacts their ability to train, travel, and participate in international competitions. The TTFI's promise to restore confidence is, therefore, crucial not just for the federation's reputation but also for the future of Indian table tennis.

The Sports Ministry is reportedly monitoring the situation closely and has indicated that it may intervene if the investigation reveals systemic failings. Such intervention could range from demanding further reforms to potentially suspending TTFI funding altogether. The Ministry's stance is expected to add further pressure on the federation to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.

The next month will be critical. The committee's findings will not only determine Mehta's fate but also shape the future of the TTFI. Restoring public trust and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Indian table tennis depends on a transparent, accountable, and ethical approach to governance.