Seven candidates contesting to become presidents of three Indian apex bodies

Published: 21 January 2025

Some members say current presidents must step aside to create room for newcomers

NT Bureau
Doha

Seven people are contesting for the position of president of three apex organisations under the Indian embassy in Qatar, elections to which are scheduled to be held on 31 January, 2025, among the members of the respective organisations.

Indian Cultural Centre (ICC), Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), and Indian Sports Centre (ISC) are the three apex bodies which are awaiting new office-bearers. All three organisations together contribute immensely to the socio-cultural life of Indians in Qatar and the leaders of these organizations have come to acquire a certain prominence, making the position of president a coveted one in the community as they spearhead various activities of the community.

The Indian community is also keenly looking forward to the results. Interestingly, this is also the first election of apex bodies where all the current presidents are seeking reelection. Manikantan A P, President of ICC, is seeking a third term.

Manikantan and Sheji Valiyakath are contesting for the position of ICC president; Shanavas T Bava, Sabith Saheer, and Sihas Babu are in the fray for ICBF president; and E P Abdulrahman and Ashique Ahammad are contesting to become ISC president.

“I served as the president of ICBF for the past two years, focusing on making the organization more active and inclusive for the entire community. We introduced an insurance scheme, started initiatives like Asraya, a career clinic, and a library, and made consular services a regular activity every alternate Friday. Our goal is to take these efforts to the next level in the upcoming tenure,” ICBF President, Shanavas T Bava, told News Trail.

“The Indian community needs a community school, which exists in countries like the UAE and Oman but not here. This is a major priority for me. I’m also planning larger events, such as Indian movie festivals, music festivals, and cultural celebrations, because small gatherings with 20-40 attendees don’t truly represent the community. Transparency and equality are essential. Currently, some groups dominate events while others, including associate organizations that contribute annually, are underrepresented. We also need fresh energy and new ideas,” Sheji Valiyakath said.

“I am committed to transforming ISC into an inclusive platform for the community. With a focus on maximizing Qatar’s facilities and resources, I would focus on organizing impactful initiatives, including a Qatar-based adaptation of the renowned Khelo India programme, to promote sports and community engagement,” Ashique Ahammad, who himself is an avid sportsperson, said.

“There is a need for an ordinary person to become the president of ICBF. If elected, I promise to make ICBF more people-friendly and beneficial and will work hard for the welfare of all people, irrespective of their caste, creed, and political and religious affiliations,” Sihas Babu said.

At the same time, some members, talking to News Trail, criticized the decision of the incumbents to seek another term.

“There is a strong feeling among some members of these organisations that those who have served as leaders once have to step aside to create room for newcomers. All of them have proved themselves, and if they want to continue to serve the community, they can do so in an advisory capacity,” a prominent community leader closely associated with the operations of these apex bodies, who didn’t want to be identified, said.

In addition to presidents, members will also be electing the Managing Committee members of these three apex bodies.