National Sports Governance Bill, 2025

GS2 – Governance

Context:

The Bill seeks to replace the non-binding National Sports Development Code (2011) with a legally enforceable framework to regulate all National Sports Federations (NSFs), including the BCCI.

Key Features

• Objective:
  To build a transparent, athlete-centric sports governance structure with legal enforceability.
• Institutional Framework:
  1. National Sports Board (NSB):
     Apex regulatory body for recognition and monitoring of NSFs.
  2. National Sports Tribunal:
     Judicial body to resolve disputes in sports federations. Appeals can go directly to the Supreme Court.
  3. Election Panel:
     Ensures fair and timely elections within NSFs by appointing electoral officers.
• Governance Reforms:

• • All NSFs brought under RTI Act as public authorities.
  • Mandatory Safe Sport Policy, aligned with POSH, to protect athletes.
  • Use of “India” or national symbols restricted without NSB approval.

• Structural Norms:

• • Executive Committees of NSFs capped at 15 members.
  • Officials’ age limits: 25–70 years (extendable up to 75 for international representation).

Challenges & Concerns

• Autonomy vs Oversight:
  • Government’s role in appointments may compromise the independence of sports bodies.
• Resistance from BCCI:
  • BCCI may oppose inclusion due to its autonomous status and financial independence.
• Legal and Federal Conflicts:
  • Central legislation may face constitutional hurdles, as ‘sports’ is a State subject.
  • Potential clashes with international sports governance norms (e.g., Olympic Charter).
• Implementation Gaps:
  • Success hinges on professionalisation and robust institutional capacity.