New Delhi: The National Sports Governance Bill 2025, tabled in Parliament on July 23, has ignited sharp debate across India’s sports landscape. Designed to replace the outdated 2011 Sports Code, the Bill proposes the formation of a powerful Sports Regulatory Board of India (SRBI) to oversee federations, enforce governance norms, and streamline sports administration. However, top sports bodies—including the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) led by P.T. Usha—have expressed grave concerns over what they see as sweeping government interference that could breach international norms and threaten India’s standing with the IOC.
Critics argue that the Bill undermines judicially established safeguards such as age and tenure caps, mandatory athlete representation, and ethical oversight. Legal activist Rahul Mehra warns that years of court-driven reforms could be undone, while federations worry that shifting dispute resolution from High Courts to a government-appointed tribunal may curtail legal recourse. Supporters, however, including the Athletics Federation of India, welcome the potential for greater transparency and efficiency—especially in light of governance delays and election disputes.
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya insists the Bill is the result of wide-ranging consultations with global bodies like the IOC and FIFA, asserting that India will uphold international standards. He maintains that the SRBI’s role is regulatory, not interventionist, and promises that in case of conflict, IOC norms will prevail. With the 2036 Olympics on the horizon, the government sees this as a key step in showcasing India’s readiness for global sporting leadership. But for now, a rift remains—between reformist ambition and the federations’ fight to protect their autonomy.
