The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has barred Jharkhand teams from taking part in the prestigious Santosh Trophy and the women’s championship, citing internal conflict within the management of the state football association.

In a letter to the state sports department and Jharkhand Football Association, the federation said it was pained to take this decision due to the "internal rift".

“AIFF received two independent teams for both the competitions, one recommended by the Chairman- Hony. Secretary while another recommended by the President- Jt. Secretary. Upon receiving four lists in total from the JFA, the AIFF entered into resolution communication with the management of JFA immediately. However, despite the AIFF’s repeated attempts to ensure that the rights of the players and the chance of the member association to participate in national competitions are not affected, the JFA committee did not resolve the issue,” the letter,sent over mail on Monday, stated.

The federation noted that the date for Jharkhand teams to report for the women’s championship was November 25 and for Santosh Trophy on November 28. It said it wanted to protect the sanctity of the competitions, and therefore, decided against entertaining any of the teams from Jharkhand.

AIFF, the governing body of football in the country, also expressed its displeasure with the Jharkhand Football Association for failing to resolve its conflicts despite repeated requests. “It is highly unfortunate that players from JFA are unable to participate in such prestigious competitions which provide a livelihood to participating players. AIFF has always stood for the betterment of football and football players and would never let petty politics hamper such opportunities to the players. However, the JFA with absolute disregard to the development of players within the state of Jharkhand have failed to resolve their conflict,” the letter stated.