Parliament Monsoon Session: Centre To Table Sports Governance Bill 2025 And Anti-Doping Amendments Today

The long-awaited National Sports Governance Bill, 2025, is expected to be introduced in Parliament on Wednesday. This bill aims to establish a framework for effective governance within the National Sports Federations (NSFs). Additionally, the government plans to present a revised version of the National Anti-Doping Amendment Bill.

The anti-doping legislation was initially passed in 2022 but faced implementation hurdles due to objections from the World Anti-Doping Agency regarding the creation of the National Board for Anti-Doping. The new bill proposes establishing a National Sports Board with authority to grant or revoke recognition of NSFs. Notably, this includes the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which has historically resisted government regulation by citing its independence from government funding.

Impact on BCCI and Other Federations

A source stated that all sports federations are encompassed by this bill. With cricket's inclusion in the LA 2028 Olympics, it is now part of the Olympic movement. However, some sports federations and PT Usha, president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), have opposed forming this board.

PT Usha expressed concerns about the proposed Sports Regulatory Authority's extensive powers. "In its current form, it will be perceived as infringing upon the autonomy of IOA and NSFs," she said. She warned that this could lead to conflicts with international sports governance bodies like the IOC, which has previously suspended national committees over excessive governmental interference.

Consultations and Tribunal Formation

The sports ministry clarified that all clauses were developed after consulting many international federations, including FIFA. The bill also proposes creating a sports tribunal to handle court cases involving sports bodies, especially during elections.

"We have been flooded with cases," a source mentioned. People seeking control over federations often secure favourable verdicts from high courts, delaying proceedings. The tribunal aims to streamline these processes by centralising case handling and limiting appeals to the Supreme Court.

This legislative effort seeks to enhance governance and streamline legal processes within India's sports sector while addressing international concerns and domestic opposition.