The Times of India

AICF confirms new dates for chess nationals after GM Abhijeet Gupta flags 2026 snub

The All India Chess Federation has rescheduled the senior National Chess Championship to November 29-December 9, 2026, in Varanasi, after GM Abhijeet Gupta objected to its proposed March 2027 dates. AICF held discussions with stakeholders to come up with a solution while retaining the venue. Gupta had cited school board exams and the risk of effectively losing the 2026 edition.