Panaji: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has told all 14 clubs that they have time till July 20 to pay the first instalment of Rs 55 lakh and confirm their participation in the top tier Indian Super League (ISL).The written confirmation of participation and receipt of the first instalment are “mandatory prerequisites” for participation in the competition, according to an email to all clubs by AIFF deputy secretary general M Satyanarayan on Thursday.The balance second installment of Rs 55 lakh has to be paid to AIFF before August 14.“The above timeline has been arrived at, keeping in view the operational, commercial and regulatory timelines necessary for the successful organisation of the league. It is, therefore, imperative that the process is viewed and complied with in accordance with the mutually agreed framework,” said Satyanarayan, adding that “no requests for extension, waiver, or deferred compliance shall be entertained beyond the respective deadlines.”While most clubs are expected to confirm their participation before the deadline, all eyes will be on Indian Football League (IFL) champions Diamond Harbour FC, whose participation in the top tier league has been questioned due to an investigation for illegal practices and finances, according to West Bengal’s sports minister Nisith Pramanik.According to reports, the sports minister said there were complaints against Diamond Harbour regarding the source of the club’s funds and the manner in which the money was spent.The AIFF, however, has maintained that Diamond Harbour will be part of the 14-team ISL this season.“As far as we are concerned, as of now, we have not received any letter from Diamond Harbour that they are unable to participate or that they have any problem,” Satyanarayan told reporters on Wednesday. “We are assuming that 14 teams are ready (to take part). Once we send out the letter and receive a response, we will know the exact position (of the club).”
