Former Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president Narayana Ramachandran has passed away in Chennai at the age of 77 after a prolonged illness. According to officials, he had been unwell for the last few months and breathed his last on Thursday.

Squash Rackets Federation of India Secretary General Cyrus Poncha confirmed his death and expressed deep sorrow over the loss. He said, “He was not keeping well for the last few months and breathed his last today,” adding, “It’s a big loss to the squash fraternity. I don’t have words.”

Ramachandran served as IOA president from February 2014 to December 2017, during which he was actively involved in sports administration and Olympic movement activities in India. He was also closely associated with the squash community in the country and played a key role in its development.

On the international stage, he served as president of the World Squash Federation from 2008 to 2016, contributing to the global growth and promotion of the sport.

His passing marks a significant loss to both Indian and international sports administration, particularly in the field of squash and Olympic governance.
(With PTI inputs)