In the realm of Indian cricket, the focus is now on who will be the next Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) following Jay Shah’s significant departure. A significant contender for this prestigious position is Rohan Jaitley, the President of the Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA) and the son of the late Union Minister, Arun Jaitley. Since entering cricket administration in 2020, Rohan has been on the radar for his leadership qualities and commitment to the sport.
Rohan Jaitley’s Career Journey
Born in 1989, Rohan Jaitley received his early education from Delhi Public School in R.K. Puram. He pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Law at Amity University from 2006 to 2011. Furthering his education, he attended Cornell University in 2013 for his Master of Laws, which he completed in 2014. Afterward, he commenced his legal career, practicing law in the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court of India.
Family Background
Rohan is the son of Arun Jaitley, a prominent leader in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Sangeeta Jaitley. They were married in 1982. Rohan’s family legacy in law continues through his sister Sonali Jaitley, who also chose a career in law. Rohan married Mehrunisha Anand in 2020, who follows in the family tradition as a legal practitioner.
Entry into DDCA
The Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA), integral to the administrative framework of cricket in India, had Arun Jaitley as its long-term president until his passing in 2020. Following his death, Rohan was nominated to succeed him and was elected unopposed as president during the elections that year. Notably, he was re-elected as the president of DDCA in 2023, pledging to maintain a corruption-free and efficient organization.
Controversies and Challenges
Rohan’s journey, however, has not been without controversy. In February 2023, a model accused him of sexual harassment, claiming exploitation under the guise of a job opportunity in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Although the incident drew media attention, it subsided after the accuser did not file a police report. However, BJP leader Subramanian Swamy urged BCCI to take cognizance of this matter and investigate it thoroughly.
Why is Rohan Jaitley Considered for the Secretary Position?
With Jay Shah transitioning to a new role as the Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), the BCCI needs a figure who can manage its administrative tasks effectively. Rohan Jaitley stands out due to several reasons:
- 1. Political Connections: Arun Jaitley had substantial political connections that could benefit BCCI.
- 2. Lack of Recognition: Since Arun Jaitley’s passing, there has been no appointment from the current central government that acknowledges his contributions.
- 3. BJP Influence: The BJP wields considerable influence within BCCI, and Arun Jaitley had previously held the position of Vice-President from 2012 to 2013.
Rohan Jaitley’s Wealth
Rohan Jaitley has not yet held any public office, thus he has not made any formal asset declarations. Nonetheless, it is believed that his net worth exceeds 100 crore INR. In a statement made in 2018, Arun Jaitley disclosed that the family’s total assets were around 111 crore INR, with Arun holding 78 crore and his wife Sangeeta possessing assets worth 43 crore.
Conclusion
Rohan Jaitley’s ascent in the world of cricket administration indicates a continuation of a legacy that his father helped establish. With his legal background, family connections, and a vision for a corruption-free sporting body, Rohan is a formidable candidate for the role of BCCI Secretary, and the cricketing world keenly watches his next moves.
