New Sports Bill aims to reform federations

New Delhi

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya introduced the National Sports Governance Bill in Lok Sabha on Wednesday. The bill seeks to reform sports bodies in India by increasing transparency, accountability, and government oversight. A major highlight is that it brings the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) under regulation once the bill becomes law.

The bill proposes forming a powerful National Sports Board (NSB) to set rules and supervise sports federations. All National Sports Federations (NSFs) must get NSB approval to receive government funding.

A National Sports Tribunal will also be created. It will act like a civil court, handling disputes on selection, elections, and other issues in sports bodies. The tribunal's decisions can only be challenged in the Supreme Court.

The bill slightly relaxes the age limit for sports body leaders, allowing people up to age 75 to contest elections, if international rules allow it. It also brings all national sports bodies under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, even the BCCI, which has long resisted it.

The NSB will be appointed by the central government, based on recommendations from a selection committee. It will include senior officials, experienced sports administrators, and a top sportsperson.

The NSB can de-recognise federations that fail to hold proper elections or misuse funds. It will also have the authority to act against serious rule violations.