Delhi, 23 July (HS): The National Sports Governance Bill is set to be introduced in Parliament on Wednesday, aiming to bring the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and 45 National Sports Federations (NSFs) under a unified governance framework. The BCCI will need recognition from a forthcoming National Sports Board (NSB) despite not receiving government funding, adhering to the law once the Bill becomes an Act. While remaining autonomous, the BCCI's disputes will be adjudicated by the proposed National Sports Tribunal, which will handle issues related to elections and team selection.
The Bill seeks to enhance governance in sports by institutionalizing timely elections, promoting administrative accountability, athlete welfare, and minimizing litigation. The NSB, appointed entirely by the central government, will have broad powers to grant or suspend recognition of federations for various infractions ranging from electoral irregularities to financial mismanagement. The age cap for administrators will see some concessions, permitting candidates aged between 70 and 75 to contest elections if neither the international bodies raise objections.
Composition of the NSB will include a chairperson and members appointed based on the recommendations of a search-cum-selection committee. It aims to prioritize athlete-centric governance ensuring stable administration, fair selection processes, grievance redressal, and proper financial management. The National Sports Tribunal will expedite dispute resolution, thus preventing prolonged court cases that harm athletes' careers.
Moreover, the NSB will replace the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) in overseeing NSF-related matters. Despite initial opposition from the IOA due to concerns of government interference, the Sports Minister
Mansukh Mandaviya has assured that the Bill aligns with the Olympic Charter, fostering a cooperative relationship vital for India's Olympic aspirations. The Tribunal's decisions will be final, appealable only in the Supreme Court, ensuring a streamlined approach to sports governance and athlete welfare.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
