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In this article, I will walk you through the structure of AIFF’s judicial bodies and explain how you can file a complaint before each of them. The process may seem daunting at first glance, but once you understand the framework, it becomes significantly more manageable.

Introduction

If you are a player, club official, agent, or even an informed supporter, you may one day find yourself in a position where something seems unfair or outright unlawful in the world of Indian football. Perhaps a club has failed to pay your wages. Perhaps a player you represent was wrongly banned. Or perhaps you are a fan who has witnessed unethical behaviour and feel compelled to act. In such situations, the judicial bodies of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) offer a formal channel through which complaints may be filed and disputes may be resolved.

So, now if this happens, where do you file a complaint? What will be your next steps?

Let us look at how it works through a case law. 

Case of DA Silva

To better understand the structure and functioning of the judicial bodies under the All India Football Federation (AIFF), let us examine a recent and complex case involving disciplinary proceedings, appeals, and tournament implications.

A player named Cledson Carvalho da Silva, who plays for Namdhari FC, received a red card during a match held on 15th December 2024. The offence was classified as violent conduct, specifically, a headbutt, making it a serious disciplinary matter. 

Keep in mind that this was the first game in contention.

Due to the gravity of the incident, the Disciplinary Committee (DC) of the AIFF initiated a suo motu investigation under Article 48 of the AIFF Disciplinary Code, 2024. Upon reviewing the case, the DC concluded that Da Silva should serve a three-match suspension.

Following the DC’s decision, Namdhari FC filed a notice of intention to appeal to the Appeals Committee (AC). As per the Code, the club also deposited the requisite fee. The case was reviewed by AC and ot was decided to reduce the suspension from three matches to one. 

By the time the AC’s decision was delivered, one match had already taken place. Da Silva had to sit this one out because the matter was still ongoing.

Namdhari FC assumed that this counted as the single-game suspension and proceeded to include him in the squad for the next match against Churchill Brothers FC. During this game, Da Silva received a yellow card. This yellow card was his fourth of the season, which, under I-League regulations, should have triggered an automatic one-match suspension.

In the following match, against Inter Kashi FC, Da Silva once again took the field. Inter Kashi FC filed a formal protest, arguing that Da Silva was ineligible to play due to the unserved suspension stemming from yellow card accumulation. Citing Article 57 of the Disciplinary Code, they demanded a 3-0 forfeit victory.

This now became the second match in contention.

The Disciplinary Committee reached out to the Appeals Committee for clarification. The AC responded that their decision addressed only the red card suspension and did not touch upon the yellow card accumulation. Based on this clarification, the DC ruled in favour of Inter Kashi FC and awarded them a 3-0 win by default.

However, Namdhari FC was not satisfied and appealed the DC’s ruling. In a surprising turn, the Appeals Committee overruled the DC’s decision, determining that Da Silva’s participation was not in violation, as the red card suspension had already been served and the AC had not explicitly disqualified him further. 

This ruling had a major impact on the tournament standings. With Inter Kashi’s win reversed, the points reshuffling meant that Churchill Brothers FC were ultimately declared the champions of the tournament. Right now, the trophy is with the Churchill Brothers, but the case has gone further to CAS. Which means that this is not fully over just yet. 

Understanding the AIFF judicial bodies

The AIFF Constitution establishes a series of independent committees tasked with ensuring discipline, fairness, and transparency within Indian football. These judicial bodies operate much like quasi-judicial tribunals, and their decisions carry serious implications for players, clubs, and other stakeholders.

Here is a brief overview of the four primary judicial bodies under the AIFF:

1. AIFF Disciplinary Committee

This committee deals with violations of AIFF’s Disciplinary Code, which includes matters such as:

• Misconduct on the field (e.g., violent conduct, use of abusive language),
• Off-field behaviour affecting the integrity of the game,
• Failure to comply with AIFF directives.

The Disciplinary Committee may impose penalties such as fines, suspensions, point deductions, or even expulsion from competitions.

2. AIFF Appeals Committee

If you are aggrieved by a decision passed by the Disciplinary Committee or certain other AIFF bodies, you may approach the Appeals Committee. It acts as the second instance body and may confirm, reverse, or modify the earlier decision.

Note: Appeals are subject to strict timelines, and failure to comply with procedural deadlines may result in dismissal.

3. AIFF Ethics Committee

This committee focuses on breaches of ethical behaviour, including:

• Corruption or attempted match-fixing,
• Conflicts of interest involving AIFF officials,
• Misuse of position or abuse of office.

If your concern relates to the integrity of football governance, this is the forum you must approach.

4. AIFF Player Status Committee

This committee handles disputes related to:

• Player registration and transfer,
• Breaches of contract,
• Eligibility to play under specific conditions.

For example, if a club unilaterally terminates a player’s contract without just cause, this committee will be the appropriate adjudicatory body.

Filing a complaint before the AIFF Disciplinary Committee

When Should You Approach the Disciplinary Committee?

You may approach the AIFF Disciplinary Committee if you are dealing with incidents such as:

• A player’s violent conduct during a match.
• Use of racial, discriminatory, or abusive language by a coach.
• A club’s failure to adhere to matchday rules or fielding an ineligible player.
• Failure to pay fines or comply with AIFF rulings.

Let me illustrate this with a real-world-inspired scenario.

Scenario: The spitting incident

In a heated I-League match between Hyderabad Eagles FC and Warriors FC, a player from the Eagles allegedly spat at an opponent in full view of the assistant referee. While the referee showed a yellow card, the incident was caught clearly on video. Warriors FC believed this constituted gross misconduct and wished to file a formal complaint seeking a longer suspension and fine.

Step 1: Review the AIFF Disciplinary Code

Before drafting your complaint, review the AIFF Disciplinary Code (available on the AIFF website). Identify the specific provision(s) you believe have been violated. In our scenario, this may fall under Article 48 – Offensive behaviour and fair play.

Step 2: Draft a formal complaint

The complaint must be written clearly, mentioning:

• The name and role of the complainant.
• The full details of the incident.
• Relevant match details (date, venue, competition).
• Specific rule(s) violated.
• Supporting evidence (match video, referee report, photographs, etc.).
• Relief sought (e.g., increased ban, fine, warning).

You must address the complaint to The Secretary, AIFF Disciplinary Committee.

Step 3: Submit the complaint via the official channel

You must submit the complaint via email to the AIFF’s official disciplinary email ID or through your club’s legal/administrative wing. Complaints from clubs must come on official letterhead.

Step 4: Await communication

Once submitted, the Committee will assess the admissibility of the complaint. You may be asked to appear for a virtual or physical hearing. Be prepared to submit clarifications or additional evidence, if needed.

Sample complaint format

To,

The Secretary,

AIFF Disciplinary Committee,

All India Football Federation,

Dwarka, New Delhi.

Subject: Complaint Against Player No. 9 of Hyderabad Eagles FC for Misconduct During I-League Match on 10 March 2025

Sir/Madam,

I, Mr. Dev M., Team Manager of Warriors FC, hereby submit this complaint regarding the conduct of Player No. 9 of Hyderabad Eagles FC during the I-League match held on 10 March 2025 at Tilak Maidan, Goa.

In the 72nd minute of the match, the said player was observed spitting at our defender, Mr. Ramesh Naik. The incident occurred in close proximity to the assistant referee and was clearly captured in the official match footage. While the referee issued a yellow card, we submit that the conduct was in gross violation of Article 48 of the AIFF Disciplinary Code.

We hereby request that the Committee take cognisance of the incident, review the match footage, and impose an appropriate sanction in accordance with the Code.

Enclosed:

1. Match video clip (link)

2. Referee’s match report

3. Photograph of the incident

Sincerely,

[Signature]

Dev M.

Team Manager  

Warriors FC  

Email: [email protected]  

Date: 11 March 2025

Filing an appeal before the AIFF Appeals Committee

When should you file an appeal?

The AIFF Appeals Committee is your next stop if you are dissatisfied with a decision passed by the Disciplinary Committee, or certain other AIFF bodies such as the Player Status Committee or Ethics Committee. You may appeal if:

• You believe the penalty imposed was disproportionate,
• New evidence has emerged,
• There was an error in the application of the law,
• You were denied a fair hearing or due process.

However, the right to appeal is not automatic in every case. For example, some minor decisions may be final and binding. Therefore, you must first consult the AIFF Statutes and the specific committee’s rules to confirm the availability of an appeal.

Scenario: The suspended coach

Following a post-match altercation, the Disciplinary Committee suspended Coach Rajeev Dey of Kerala FC for six matches and fined him ₹1,00,000. The club contended that the altercation was verbal, not physical, and that the punishment was excessive. They wished to file an appeal.

Step-by-Step guide to filing the appeal – 

Step 1: Confirm the time limit for filing

Appeals must usually be filed within 7 days from the date you receive the Disciplinary Committee’s decision. The decision letter will mention the appeal window. Calculate carefully; missing the deadline could mean forfeiting your right to appeal.

Step 2: Prepare the notice of appeal

Your appeal should be drafted formally and must include:

• Reference to the original decision (with case number, if available);
• Grounds of appeal (with clear reasoning);
• Relief sought (e.g., reduction of suspension, waiver of fine);
• Supporting documents or new evidence (if any).

The appeal must be signed by an authorised club representative or the concerned individual and must be addressed to The Secretary, AIFF Appeals Committee.

Step 3: Pay the prescribed fee (if applicable)

Certain appeals may attract a filing fee, especially when initiated by clubs or commercial entities. Refer to the AIFF Fee Schedule or contact the Secretariat for confirmation.

As per Article 120 of the AIFF Disciplinary Code, the AIFF Appeals Committee fee is INR 60,000 for individual appellants and INR 1,20,000 for clubs, member associations, or institutions that are not natural persons. According to the AIFF Disciplinary Code, the appeal fee must be paid when lodging an appeal.

Step 4: Submit the appeal

Submit the appeal via email (preferably from an official club email ID) or by post, with copies to the AIFF Secretariat. Keep a record of the submission date and acknowledgement.

Step 5: Await the hearing date

If your appeal is admitted, the Committee will notify you of the hearing schedule. You or your legal representative may be called to present arguments virtually or in person. The Committee will issue a reasoned decision, which may confirm, modify, or overturn the earlier ruling.

Sample appeal format

To,

The Secretary,

AIFF Appeals Committee,

All India Football Federation,

Dwarka, New Delhi.

Subject: Appeal Against Decision of AIFF Disciplinary Committee Dated 22 March 2025 – Case No. DC/19/2025

Sir/Madam,

I, Mr. Kumaran R., General Secretary of Kerala FC, hereby submit an appeal against the decision issued by the AIFF Disciplinary Committee on 22 March 2025, in Case No. DC/19/2025, suspending our Head Coach, Mr. Rajeev Dey for six matches and imposing a fine of ₹1,00,000.

We respectfully submit that the incident in question involved verbal provocation and did not amount to violent conduct. The penalty imposed is disproportionate to the conduct alleged. We also enclose two independent witness statements, which were not available at the time of the original hearing.

We therefore request that the Committee reconsider the decision and reduce the suspension to a caution or one-match ban, with waiver of the financial penalty.

Enclosed:

1. Copy of original decision

2. Match footage (link)

3. Witness statements of Match Officials Mr. Raju S. and Mr. Dipen K.

4. Copy of AIFF Disciplinary Code (highlighted provisions)

Sincerely,

[Signature]

Kumaran R. 

General Secretary  

Kerala FC  

Email: [email protected]  

Date: 27 March 2025

Filing a complaint before the AIFF Ethics Committee

When should you approach the Ethics Committee?

The AIFF Ethics Committee primarily deals with breaches of ethical conduct. These matters often go beyond matchday issues and touch upon integrity, governance, and fair administration. You should approach this Committee if there is:

• Alleged match-fixing or manipulation of results;
• Abuse of position by an AIFF official or club executive;
• Bribery or acceptance of unlawful gifts;
• Conflicts of interest not disclosed or acted upon;
• Discriminatory or defamatory public remarks by a football stakeholder.

Unlike the Disciplinary Committee, where the conduct may be impulsive or emotional, the Ethics Committee looks at patterns of dishonest or unethical behaviour that could damage the credibility of Indian football.

Scenario: The sponsorship leak

Ms. Indira T., a former communications manager with a second division club, became aware that a high-ranking club official had leaked confidential AIFF sponsorship documents to a private sports marketing agency in exchange for favours. The leak not only damaged the club’s standing but also compromised the bidding process. Ms. Indira resigned and chose to file a complaint with the Ethics Committee, supported by email trails and witness testimony.

Let us look at the step-by-step guide to filing a complaint.

Step 1: Review the AIFF Code of Ethics

The AIFF Code of Ethics (usually aligned with FIFA’s code) outlines various forms of unethical conduct. Familiarise yourself with the provisions before you draft the complaint; your ability to point to specific clauses will strengthen your credibility.

Step 2: Draft a comprehensive complaint

An ethics complaint is usually more elaborate than a disciplinary one. Your complaint should include:

• A detailed narration of facts and timeline,
• Identity and designation of the person accused,
• Specific articles of the Ethics Code that you believe were violated,
• All supporting documents and evidence,
• Any witnesses who are willing to testify or provide statements,

You must mark the complaint “Confidential – For the Attention of the AIFF Ethics Committee Only” and submit it to the AIFF Secretariat.

Step 3: Request for anonymity (if applicable)

If you fear retaliation or backlash, you may specifically request that your identity be protected. The AIFF has a policy in place that provides safeguards in such cases, as under Article 94 of the code. 

Step 4: Submit to the AIFF Ethics Committee

Unlike matchday complaints, Ethics Committee complaints can be made at any time, as long as the alleged incident occurred within the limitation period:

43. Limitation period for prosecution 

43.1. Infringements committed during a Match cannot be prosecuted after a lapse of two (2) years. 

43.2. The prosecution of anti-doping violations is subject to the Anti-Doping Regulations and guidelines issued by the NADA. 

43.3. Prosecution for Forgery and falsification (cf. Article 62) and corruption (cf. Article 63) is not subject to a limitation period. 

43.4. All other infringements cannot be prosecuted after a lapse of ten (10) years. 

Submit the complaint via email or a sealed envelope marked for the Ethics Committee, addressed to the AIFF headquarters.

Sample ethics complaint format

Strictly Confidential – For the Attention of the AIFF Ethics Committee Only

To,

The Secretary,

AIFF Ethics Committee,

All India Football Federation,

Dwarka, New Delhi.

Subject: Complaint Concerning Unethical Conduct and Abuse of Position by Mr. [Name Redacted]

Sir/Madam,

I, Ms. Indrajayant T., former Communications Manager of Goa Rising Tides, submit this complaint regarding grave violations of the AIFF Code of Ethics by Mr. Tilak J., who presently serves as Director (Operations) of the same club.

Between October 2024 and January 2025, Mr. Tilak accessed internal AIFF sponsorship documents and forwarded them to ABC Agency in exchange for favours, including hospitality and preferential job offers for his relatives. I have enclosed emails, WhatsApp conversations, and internal meeting minutes as evidence.

This conduct violates Articles 13 (general duties), 15 (conflicts of interest), and 21 (bribery) of the AIFF Code of Ethics. I request that this complaint be examined independently and that my identity be kept confidential, considering the potential repercussions.

Enclosed:

1. Email chains dated November 2024

2. Screenshots of WhatsApp exchanges

3. Club meeting minutes dated 6 December 2024

4. AIFF Code of Ethics 

Sincerely,

[Signature]

Indirajayant T.

Former Communications Manager  

Email: [Personal Email]  

Mobile: [Number – optional]  

Date: 5 April 2025

Filing a complaint before the AIFF Player Status Committee

When should you approach the Player Status Committee?

The AIFF Player Status Committee addresses disputes and regulatory issues involving players and clubs, particularly where player contracts, transfers, or registrations are in question. You should file a petition before this Committee in situations such as:

• Dispute over a player’s contractual obligations (e.g., wrongful termination);
• Improper transfer or registration of a player;
• Claims for training compensation or solidarity payments;
• Dual registration or unauthorised representation;
• Transfer disputes between clubs, either domestic or involving international clearance.

This Committee plays a crucial role in safeguarding the professional rights of players and ensuring contractual fairness between parties in Indian football.

Scenario: The contract dispute

Mr. Mohan Sail, a professional goalkeeper, signed a two-year contract with Kerala United FC. After one season, the club attempted to terminate his contract without notice, citing a “tactical restructuring”. Mohan Sai had not breached any terms, had no injuries, and had been a regular starter. When efforts to mediate failed, Roshan approached the Player Status Committee to challenge the termination and claim damages.

Step-by-step guide to filing a complaint – 

Step 1: Identify the jurisdiction and nature of the dispute

Read the AIFF Regulations for the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP). Identify the precise rule that supports your position, be it breach of contract, improper termination, or registration anomaly. This will guide your petition’s structure and tone.

Step 2: Draft the petition

Your complaint should clearly state:

• Your status (registered player, agent, club, etc.);
• Facts of the dispute, including relevant dates;
• Specific regulations that have been violated;
• Evidence such as contracts, registration letters, or match data;
• Relief sought (e.g., reinstatement, compensation, damages).

This petition must be addressed to the Secretary, AIFF Player Status Committee.

Step 3: Add a declaration regarding mediation

The Committee encourages parties to resolve contractual issues amicably before approaching the Committee. You must declare whether you attempted mediation or negotiations, and explain why it failed or was not viable.

Step 4: File the petition

You may submit the complaint via email, post, or in person at the AIFF Secretariat. Attach supporting documents, including signed contracts, previous correspondence, and payment records.

The Committee may schedule a hearing or request written submissions from both parties before delivering its decision.

Sample petition format

To,

The Secretary,

AIFF Player Status Committee,

All India Football Federation,

Dwarka, New Delhi.

Subject: Petition Challenging Unilateral Termination of Contract by Kerala United FC – Mr. Mohan Sai.

Sir/Madam,

I, Mr. Mohan Sai, registered professional football player (AIFF ID No. 1182034), submit this petition under the AIFF Regulations for the Status and Transfer of Players, challenging the unlawful termination of my contract by Kerala United FC.

I signed a two-year contract on 1 August 2023, valid until 31 July 2025. On 14 February 2025, I was notified of an immediate termination citing “tactical restructuring”. I have not breached any clause of the contract and have completed 24 appearances for the club this season.

This conduct violates Article 13 (respect of contract), Article 14 (termination without just cause), and Article 17 (consequences of termination) of the AIFF RSTP. I have enclosed my contract, performance report, and correspondence from the club.

I request that the Committee declare the termination invalid and direct the club to pay the remaining salary for the contract period, along with appropriate damages.

I also confirm that a mediation attempt was made via our player liaison officer on 20 February 2025, but failed due to non-cooperation from the club.

Enclosed:

1. Copy of contract signed 1 August 2023

2. Club letter of termination dated 14 February 2025

3. Match the appearance and performance report

4. AIFF RSTP (highlighted)

5. Mediation correspondence

Sincerely,  

[Signature]  

Mohan Sai

Email: [email protected]  

Phone: +91 9XXXX-XXXXX  

Date: 5 April 2025

Conclusion

The judicial bodies of the AIFF are not merely administrative panels. They are the legal heartbeat of Indian football, ensuring integrity, fairness, and discipline across the system. Whether you are a player, club official, legal adviser, or agent, knowing how to navigate these bodies empowers you to seek redress and protect your interests.

Every complaint or appeal you file tells the AIFF, and the larger Indian football community, that accountability matters. And that, in the end, is how the game grows stronger.

FAQs

1. Who can file a complaint with the AIFF Disciplinary Committee?

Players, club officials, agents, or other stakeholders can file complaints for issues like on-field misconduct (e.g., violent conduct), off-field behaviour affecting the game’s integrity, or non-compliance with AIFF directives. Complaints must reference specific violations in the AIFF Disciplinary Code.

2. What is the deadline for submitting a complaint to the Disciplinary Committee?

Complaints must typically be filed within 48–72 hours of the incident, as per the AIFF Disciplinary Code. Always check the specific deadline in the code to avoid dismissal.

3. How do I appeal a Disciplinary Committee decision?

File a Notice of Appeal with the AIFF Appeals Committee within 7 days of receiving the decision. Include the case number, grounds for appeal, and supporting evidence. An appeal fee (₹60,000 for individuals, ₹120,000 for clubs) may apply.

4. When should I approach the AIFF Ethics Committee?

Contact the Ethics Committee for issues like match-fixing, bribery, conflicts of interest, or other unethical conduct. Complaints should detail the violation, include evidence, and reference the AIFF Code of Ethics, with no strict filing deadline but within a 10-year limitation period.

5. What disputes does the AIFF Player Status Committee handle?

This committee addresses player-related issues, such as contract disputes, wrongful terminations, improper transfers, or eligibility concerns. Submit a petition with evidence like contracts and correspondence, and confirm any prior mediation attempts.