TCA Seeks CBI Probe in Uppal Stadium deal

1. Agreement dated October 2004, but payments reportedly began in March 2004
2. Rs 2.32 crore allegedly paid before formal execution of the agreement
3. No official records, approvals, or minutes found in HCA documents
4. TCA alleges over Rs 600 crore in broader financial mismanagement
5. Demand for CBI probe and forensic audit of HCA transactions

The Telangana Cricket Association (TCA) has demanded a comprehensive probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation into the controversial Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA)–Visakha agreement, calling it a case of opaque dealings, backdated arrangements, and institutional compromise.

Reacting to an exposé on the Uppal Stadium deal, TCA said the revelations raise serious concerns over financial propriety, governance failures, and possible manipulation of official records within HCA. TCA General Secretary Guruva Reddy said the issue reflects deeper systemic problems rather than an isolated transaction.

The association flagged several irregularities in the agreement, including its date of October 16, 2004, despite payments reportedly beginning in March that year. Around ₹2.32 crore was allegedly paid before the agreement was formally executed, raising questions about the legal basis of such transactions and whether any prior undisclosed agreements were suppressed. TCA also pointed to the absence of approvals, minutes, or records during the transition phase when the stadium was renamed as the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium.

Citing directions linked to the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Bombay High Court, TCA called for restricting HCA’s operations to Hyderabad and placing it under independent oversight.

The association further alleged financial mismanagement exceeding RS 600 crore, citing irregularities in infrastructure spending, tax compliance, vendor payments, audits, and team administration. It also claimed a “culture of silence” within HCA, where dissent is suppressed and accountability lacking.

Terming it a potential mega scandal, TCA has sought a CBI probe, forensic audits, and structural reforms to ensure transparent and equitable cricket development across Telangana.

Why the privileges?

Visaka Industries Limited has been given naming rights, advertitinsg rights in key parts of the stadium, to install promotional hoardings, four-air-conditioned corporate hospitality boxes, 150 VIP passes for every match and the right to use the stadium twice a year for corporate events.