Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has reassured stakeholders that the proposed Sports Regulatory Board, a key feature of the draft National Sports Governance Bill, is designed to uphold good governance and not infringe on the autonomy of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) or national sports federations.
“We don’t want to interfere,” Mandaviya stated during a media interaction on Friday, emphasizing the extensive consultations conducted with federations, legal experts, and sports personalities. “It is the government’s responsibility to ensure that things are not left unattended.”
The draft bill outlines the regulatory board’s authority to oversee affiliations, renewals, and suspensions of bodies such as the IOA. It also mandates annual public disclosures from the national Olympic committee, national sports federations, and their affiliates.
IOA President PT Usha had earlier voiced concerns that the board’s powers could be perceived as government interference, potentially risking suspension from the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Acknowledging these concerns, Mandaviya said, “We have to follow the IOC’s rules. If we don’t, there could be consequences. That’s why I’m seeking everyone’s consensus.”
The board will feature a five-member panel, including a Khel Ratna and Dronacharya awardee, the Secretary (Sports) as chairperson, the Director-General of the Sports Authority of India as an ex-officio member, and the Vice-Chancellor of the National Sports University.
Mandaviya highlighted recent instances where his ministry’s intervention was critical, such as ensuring wrestlers participated in a world championship after the Wrestling Federation of India faced legal challenges.
He assured that the bill, which will be introduced in Parliament soon, aims to create a “mature system” for oversight without government interference. “This is about protecting opportunities for athletes while respecting the autonomy of sports bodies,” he added.
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