The National Sports Governance Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha recently, marking a historic step toward reforming India’s sports administration. While it hasn’t become law yet, its provisions promise to reshape how sports bodies operate, ensuring transparency, accountability, and athlete welfare.
One of the key highlights of the bill is the introduction of tenure and age limits for top positions in sports bodies. Presidents, Secretary Generals, and Treasurers will now be restricted to three consecutive terms, totaling 12 years. The age cap is set at 70, with a possible extension to 75 if the international charter of the sport allows it. This move aims to prevent long monopolies and encourage fresh leadership.
The bill also mandates smaller Executive Committees, capping them at 15 members to reduce financial strain on federations. Additionally, these committees must include at least two outstanding sportspersons and four women, aligning with global efforts to promote gender equality and athlete representation in governance.
A major talking point is the creation of the National Sports Board (NSB). This body will have the authority to grant or revoke recognition for National Sports Federations (NSFs). It can even collaborate with international federations to safeguard athlete interests. The NSB will consist of a chairperson and members appointed by the central government, chosen for their integrity and expertise. The selection process involves a committee led by the Cabinet Secretary or Sports Secretary, ensuring only qualified individuals take charge.
The NSB can suspend federations that fail to hold elections, manipulate election procedures, or misuse public funds. However, it must consult the relevant international body before taking action. Only NSFs recognized by the board will be eligible for government grants, tightening accountability.
Another groundbreaking feature is the National Sports Tribunal, designed to resolve disputes swiftly. With over 350 sports-related cases clogging Indian courts, this tribunal will have the powers of a civil court. It will be headed by a sitting or retired Supreme Court judge or a High Court Chief Justice, ensuring fair and authoritative decisions. Appeals against its rulings can only be made to the Supreme Court within 30 days, streamlining the legal process.
To ensure free and fair elections within sports bodies, the bill proposes a National Sports Election Panel. Comprising retired Election Commission officials, this panel will oversee elections for Executive Committees and Athletes Committees. The NSB will maintain a roster of eligible members for this panel.
Transparency takes center stage as well. All recognized sports organizations will now fall under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, making their functioning more open to public scrutiny. This could spark resistance from bodies like the BCCI, which has historically opposed RTI due to its financial independence. With cricket set to debut in the 2028 Olympics, the BCCI may face pressure to comply.
The bill also grants the central government significant oversight. Sports bodies using national symbols or names like “India” must obtain a No Objection Certificate. The government can relax certain provisions if deemed necessary and issue directives for efficient administration. In exceptional cases, it can even restrict national teams from participating in events, safeguarding national interests.
These reforms aim to modernize India’s sports ecosystem, ensuring better governance, athlete representation, and faster dispute resolution. While challenges remain, especially with financially independent bodies like the BCCI, the bill is a bold step toward a more structured and accountable sports framework.