Even as rumours of a Hockey India (HI) Executive Board meeting sans president Dilip Tirkey on Friday made rounds sparking questions of legality and conspiracy theories, the Sports Ministry is known to have made it clear that it would brook no violations while ensuring that the federation and the beleaguered Hockey India League (HIL) continued without a hitch.

Sources in the know revealed that the ministry was looking at existing Indian Premier League (IPL) owners and franchises to get involved in the HIL as well to ensure sustainability and success. The recent good performance by the Indian women’s hockey team, with a large part of the credit going to the WHIL, has also impressed the ministry enough to get involved if necessary.

Interestingly, JSW — co-owner of IPL side Delhi Capitals — already has both men’s and women’s teams in the HIL, making it clear that the idea is not as far-fetched as it might seem. The ministry, in fact, is keen on the IPL owners getting involved in other leagues as well, including the Pro Kabaddi League and the Prime Volleyball League among others.

“We are also aware of the potential for a sport and refuse to believe anyone who says hockey is a loss-making proposition. It might reflect on their shortcomings, not the sport’s. The IPL owners have been positive in their responses. The HIL will happen and will continue,” ministry sources declared.

Asked about the recent administrative tussles within the federation, officials simply said, “everything will be sorted (out). Neither (the) HIL nor HI is going anywhere.”

The meeting on Friday, meanwhile, under the acting chairmanship of Tapan Das, announced holding the HI elections on November 7. It remains to be seen how things pan out in the coming days.