kolkata there could not have been a better time for the launch of chess players forum cpf with recent infightings within the all india chess federation aicf harming the games image in the countrythe seven founding members which includes grandmasters dibyendu barua abhijit kunte and womens grandmaster swati ghate feel its high time chess players have a voicea similar platform had existed with the chess players association of india cpai being formed in 2004 however that body did not lastcpai was formed when aicfs former secretary general ummer koya decided to reduce players prize money barua who was also a member of that body told toi on wednesday that forum did not last long but cpai was instrumental in koyas defeat in aicf polls that followed barua saidindias second gm added although there was no such immediate reason behind cpfs formation but the present instability within the aicf did play a part some of the players approached the sports ministry regarding this turmoil a few months back we did not get the necessary response but felt the need for a forum to put up the players voice in an organized manner barua saidbut the main challenge according to barua is to get recognition from aicf cpai suffered on that front as the parent body is never keen to give recognition to players platform he saidbut the arjuna award winner who is the vicepresident of this forum is hopeful that aicfs new officebearers will accept them as the sports code has called for players representation in all associations we are on a membership drive now and are contacting all players past and present we have got good response from leading players we have different membership categories and not only players but anybody associated with the game is welcome barua remarkedthe players must have a say in the federations policymaking process and maybe have a representation in the parent body too barua saidthe body will also look to have some patrons and donors to raise funds for its daily operations