Union Sports Ministry, in a virtual meeting with the ISL clubs and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) top brass, has given a green signal to the clubs to conduct ISL, which is in a stalemate. The joint secretary of the ministry has asked the clubs to submit proposals for the ISL, both on a short-term and long-term basis. The ministry, however, has simultaneously asked the clubs to reduce the budget for the stadiums and training expenditures they spend on their home matches.

The Union Sports Ministry, at the same time, has reminded the clubs to coordinate with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) through the AIFF for its permission if a short-term ISL is proposed by the clubs for this season only. According to the AFC rule, the country’s top-tier league must have at least 27 matches.

However, the ISL clubs requested the Union Sports Ministry and the AIFF representative to introduce a salary-cap for the players, divulging that they already spent an amount, out of their budget for the players amidst the ongoing impasse.

East Bengal representative in the virtual meeting opined if the ISL is continued for the long term by the clubs themselves, then they will take part in the League but will not be a part of stake-holders.

However, the clubs have informed Union Sports Ministry that they will submit proposals following a meeting in between them and submit the proposal to the Union Sports Ministry which will be deposited to the Supreme Court finally.

Former vice-president of the Federation, Subrata Dutta, however, said, “Even if the Supreme Court approves proposal, then also ISL cannot be resumed by February.”