Supreme Court Slams Sports Associations In India; Calls Them ‘Sick Organizations’

The Supreme Court has sharply criticized sports associations in India, labeling them as ‘sick organizations’.

This strong remark came from a bench of Justices Suryakant and N Kotishwar Singh during the hearing of a petition filed by the Maharashtra Wrestling Association.

The court’s comments highlighted the lack of genuine focus on sports within these organizations, saying, “There is nothing like sports in these sports associations. All are sick organizations. We do not know what they are struggling for.”

Context Of The Court’s Remarks

The Supreme Court’s criticism comes at a time when numerous cases concerning various sports organizations and their management are pending in both the High Courts and the Supreme Court.

This includes a petition filed by national Kabaddi players Priyanka and Pooja, which is currently under review by the court.

The bench’s comments reflect growing frustration with the state of sports governance in India.

Court’s Continued Push For Transparency And Democratic Values

In the past hearings, the court has repeatedly emphasized the importance of restoring democratic values within sports organizations.

Also Read: Supreme Court Allows Auroville Township Project; Quashes NGT Order

The court had previously called for a CBI inquiry and issued instructions regarding a letter from the so-called president of the Asian Kabaddi Federation to the administrator of the Indian Amateur Kabaddi Federation.

The court expressed concern over the ‘objectionable language’ used by the self-proclaimed president, underlining the need for strict measures to ensure transparency, fairness, autonomy, and independence in the election process for sports bodies.

Directive To The Government And Call For Diplomatic Measures

The Supreme Court direct the central government to ensure that Indian Kabaddi players, as well as athletes from other sports, not barred from participating in international competitions.

This includes participation in the upcoming Asian Kabaddi Championship in Iran.

Additionally, the court advised the government to explore diplomatic avenues to resolve issues surrounding the identity and recognition of sports associations, particularly the Kabaddi Federation.

As the case continues, the court’s interventions highlight a broader concern about the governance and accountability of sports bodies in India, urging reforms to ensure that athletes are not hindered by dysfunctional management.