BCCI Elects Devajit Saikia as Secretary, Bhatia as Treasurer

The uncontested election of Devajit Saikia as the Secretary and Prabhtej Singh Bhatia as the Treasurer of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was formalized during the BCCI’s Special General Meeting (SGM) on January 12, 2025. This development follows the resignation of Jay Shah and Ashish Shelar from their respective roles.

Key Points

Election Highlights

• Devajit Saikia (Secretary) and Prabhtej Singh Bhatia (Treasurer) were elected unopposed.
• No ballot vote was required since both were lone candidates.
• Election formalized by A.K. Joti, BCCI election officer, during the 10-minute SGM.

Vacated Positons

• Jay Shah resigned as BCCI Secretary on November 30, 2024, before assuming the ICC Chairmanship.
• Ashish Shelar stepped down as Treasurer after joining the Maharashtra cabinet as a Minister.

Next Election

• The joint-secretary’s post will be filled within 45 days.
• Sanjay Naik, MCA Vice-President, is a likely candidate until the AGM.

Devajit Saikia’s Profile

• Former Ranji Trophy player for Assam (1990-91).
• Key figure in developing Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati.
• Attorney General for the Government of Assam.
• Close ties with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
• Task ahead: oversee India’s men’s team’s transition in Tests and ODIs.

Prabhtej Singh Bhatia’s Profile

• Young entrepreneur with family business in liquor industry.
• Former BCCI councillor with three years of experience.
• Father, Baldev Singh Bhatia, played a crucial role in Chhattisgarh gaining full BCCI membership in 2016.