IFA accounts gutted in fire

Kolkata, Mar 14 (UNI) A freak fire at the Indian Football Association's office here last night may have left most of the financial documents in ashes along with Rs one lakh in cash.

Incidentally, the accounts audit was to be done today.

The incident came to notice of an IFA caretaker late last night while he was closing the first floor gate and saw fire in the backoffice.

He immediately called IFA Secretary Subrata Dutta, who, in turn, informed the police and fire brigade.

Three engines turned up in no time and the fire was doused withing an hour.

Mr Dutta, who was on spot, said he had left the office at around 2030 hours along with other office-bearers. But accountant Kaushik Chanda worked till late.

Though Mr Dutta did not say it in as many words, he indicated that it could be a sabotage. Other office-bearers openly echoed the feelings.

Official sources said nothing could be ascertained before the forensic reports came in.

Mr Dutta said every evening around Rs 80,000 in cash remained in the accountant's office and if a cheque of Rs one lakh that was to be cashed yesterday was done on time than the financial loss could have been much bigger.

UNI