AIFF Media Team

NEW DELHI: All India Football Federation condoles the death of former AIFF President Mr. Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi who passed away earlier today (November 20, 2017) in New Delhi. Mr. Dasmunshi, who is survived by his wife and their only son was under medical observation since 2008. He was 72.

Mr. Dasmunsi was first elected as the AIFF President in December 1988 when he succeeded Mr. Khalifa Ziauddin to the post.

As a mark of respect, the AIFF Flag flies at half-mast at the AIFF Headquarters -- the Football House in Dwarka, New Delhi and a minute’s silence will be observed prior to the kick-off of all AIFF matches.

Mr. Dasmunsi, fondly referred to as Priyo-da played a stellar role in laying the foundation for the growth of Football in the country. It was under his leadership that Vision India Projects were launched along with the National Football League, and later the I-League along with the AIFF Elite Academy in Goa.

It was also under his tenure that India won the AFC Challenge Cup in 2008 in Delhi to qualify for the AFC Asian Cup Doha 2011 for the first time since 1984; and also the 2007 Nehru Cup.

Mr. Praful Patel, AIFF President mentioned it as "a massive loss for Indian Football.”

In his message, Mr. Patel said: “It is very sad to hear that Mr. Dasmunshi is no more. His contribution to Indian Football can never be forgotten. The thoughts and prayers of the Indian football community are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”

“He was a visionary and had laid the path for the development of Indian Football over the years. May his soul rest in peace,” he added.

AIFF General Secretary Mr. Kushal Das in his message said: “He has been an inspiration to all. He was a workaholic and we will always remember him for his passion for Football. I share the grief.”

“On behalf of AIFF we extend our heartfelt condolences to all members of the bereaved family. May his soul rest in peace.”

Mr. Dasmunsi also served as a member of the AFC Executive Committee, the AFC Technical Committee, and was also the Chairman of AFC Legal Committee. He was a member of the FIFA Court of Arbitration and acted as the Vice-President of the Indian Olympic Association.

Besides, he was also actively involved as a FIFA Technical Study Group Member in 1995 Women’s Women Cup (Sweden) and a Match Commissioner in 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup (USA).

The former AIFF President was the first Indian to attain the privilege of being the special Duty officer at the 1998 France World Cup and the 2002 Korea Japan World Cup. He was also the Chef`de Mission of the India Olympics Contingent in 2004 in Athens and Match Commissioner for two World Cup Matches in 2006 Germany World Cup.

In addition, Mr. Das Munsi was also the Venue in charge for FIFA World Cups for three consecutive editions France 1998, Korea/Japan 2002 and Germany 2006.