The Sports Governance Bill, set for Parliament’s monsoon session starting Monday, establishes a National Sports Board (NSB), appointed by the central government, with powers to suspend National Sports Federations (NSFs) for violations like electoral irregularities or financial misappropriation, acting on complaints or “its own motion.” This diminishes the Indian Olympic Association’s (IOA) authority, long marred by factionalism. The bill allows administrators aged 70-75 to contest elections if international bodies approve, introducing stringent accountability.
National Sports Board Composition and Powers
The NSB, led by a chairperson, will have members appointed via a search-cum-selection committee chaired by the Cabinet Secretary or Secretary Sports, including the Sports Authority of India’s Director General, two experienced sports administrators, and a Dronacharya, Khel Ratna, or Arjuna awardee. The NSB can grant or revoke NSF recognition, form ad-hoc panels for suspended NSFs, and “collaborate” with international bodies for athlete welfare and global compliance. It may de-recognise NSFs for failing to hold elections, “gross irregularities in the election procedures,” or not publishing audited accounts, consulting global bodies first. Despite IOA’s objections, fearing International Olympic Committee (IOC) sanctions, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya confirms IOC consultation, crucial for India’s 2036 Olympic bid.
National Sports Election Panel
The bill creates a National Sports Election Panel of retired Election Commission members, State Election Commissioners, Chief Electoral Officers, or Deputy Election Commissioners. NSFs can appoint panel members to oversee elections, ensuring transparency.
National Sports Tribunal
A National Sports Tribunal is proposed for “independent, speedy, effective and cost-efficient disposal of sports-related disputes,” led by a sitting or retired Supreme Court judge or High Court Chief Justice, with two members. Appointments, recommended by a committee under the Chief Justice of India or a nominated Supreme Court judge, allow government removal for violations like financial irregularities or actions against “public interest.”
(With inputs from PTI)