National Sports Governance Bill, 2025

Why in News? The Rajya Sabha passed the National Sports Governance Bill, 2025 on August 12, 2025, following its earlier passage in the Lok Sabha. The Bill seeks to regulate the functioning of national sports federations in India and aims to enhance transparency and accountability.

Relevance : UPSC Pre &  Mains

Prelims :  National Sports Governance Bill, 2025

Mains  : GS 2

Aim of the Bill:

• To recognise national sports federations and regulate their functioning.
• Promote transparency, collaboration, and funding opportunities.
• Ensure Olympic sports bodies are covered; cricket will be included later after government notification.

Exception for BCCI:

• Under Clause 15(2), only sports bodies receiving grants or financial assistance from the government will be considered public authorities under RTI.
• Since BCCI does not receive such direct financial aid, it is excluded from RTI’s ambit.

BCCI’s Stand:

• BCCI claims it is a private, autonomous body and not a “public authority.”
• It is registered under the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act, 1975.
• Receives indirect benefits (tax exemptions, subsidised land) but no direct government funding.

Legal and Judicial Background:

• Supreme Court & Law Commission have held that BCCI performs “public functions” and should be under RTI.
• CIC (2018) declared BCCI a “public authority” due to its control over cricket and public interest involved.
• Courts have earlier criticised BCCI for lack of transparency.

 If BCCI Were Under RTI:

• Citizens could request information on selection criteria, contracts, broadcasting deals, and board decisions.
• Would ensure greater accountability and reduce scope for arbitrary decision-making.

Key Aspects of the Bill:

Establishment of National Sports Bodies:

• The bill provides for the recognition of national sports bodies, including the National Olympic Committee, National Paralympic Committee, and various National and Regional Sports Federations.

National Sports Board:

• A National Sports Board will be established to oversee all recognized sports organizations and ensure they adhere to the bill’s provisions, according to PRSIndia.

National Sports Tribunal:

• A National Sports Tribunal will be created to resolve disputes related to sports governance and athlete welfare, reducing the need for lengthy court battles, according to SCC Online.

Athlete Representation:

• The bill mandates the inclusion of athletes in the decision-making processes of sports federations, ensuring their voices are heard.

RTI Act Compliance:

• Recognized sports organizations will be treated as public authorities under the Right to Information Act, 2005, promoting transparency and accountability.

Age and Tenure Limits:

• The bill introduces age and tenure limits for office-bearers in national sports federations, promoting leadership renewal and preventing stagnation.

Safe Sports Policy:

• A Safe Sports Policy will be formulated to protect athletes from harassment and abuse, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment.

Financial Transparency:

The bill requires sports bodies to be transparent in their financial dealings and accountable for the funds they receive.