Today, On 6th January, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna recused himself from hearing petitions related to the constitutions of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The cases involve crucial issues concerning the governance and structure of these sports bodies. The CJI cited potential conflict of interest or personal reasons for stepping aside. A new bench will now be assigned to handle the matter.
New Delhi: Chief Justice of India Sanjv Khanna recused himself from hearing two separate petitions related to the finalization of the constitutions for the Indian Olympic Association and the All India Football Federation, both overseen by former Supreme Court judge Justice L. Nageswara Rao.
At the beginning of the proceedings, CJI Khanna, who was sitting alongside Justice Sanjay Kumar, stated that he would not participate in these cases due to his prior involvement with one of the petitions in the Delhi High Court.
Read Also: Delhi HC Seeks Clarity from Centre on WFI Management, After IOA Committee Dissolution
He remarked,
“Let the pleas come before another bench headed by Justice PS Narasimha on February 10. I remember hearing this in Delhi High Court.”
The petitions were last addressed on March 19, 2024, by a bench led by the then Chief Justice DY Chandrachud.
During that hearing, the bench allowed the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to submit its objections to the draft constitution proposed by Justice Rao.
The bench stated,
“The amicus curiae will update the existing chart to reflect the objections of the AIFF.”
Additionally, it indicated that it would resolve the issues concerning the constitutions of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the AIFF at the next hearing.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is the apex body responsible for the promotion and regulation of sports in India, affiliated with the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Established in 1927, the IOA oversees India’s participation in the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and other international multi-sport events. It works closely with national sports federations to ensure athlete preparation and the development of sports infrastructure.
The IOA also plays a key role in selecting athletes, coaches, and officials for international competitions. It coordinates with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and other stakeholders to implement policies and programs for sports promotion in India. Over the years, the IOA faced challenges like governance issues and disputes over its constitution, which have often attracted attention from courts and regulatory bodies.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is the main organization that manages football in India. Established in 1937, it is linked with FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and is based in New Delhi. The AIFF works to promote, regulate, and develop football at all levels across the country.
It organizes major tournaments like the Indian Super League (ISL), I-League, Super Cup, and various youth competitions. The AIFF also manages training programs, selects players for international events, and runs grassroots programs to support young talent.
FOLLOW US FOR MORE LEGAL UPDATES ON YOUTUBE
