BCCI to Be Brought Under New National Sports Governance Bill
The powerful and largely autonomous Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to come under the purview of the new National Sports Governance Bill. This move, revealed ahead of the bill's introduction in Parliament, would require the cricket body to get recognition from a proposed National Sports Board, similar to other national sports federations. The legislation aims to enforce accountability, timely elections, and a formal dispute resolution framework, fundamentally altering governance of India's most popular sport.
Unpacked:
The BCCI has historically operated autonomously, managing Indian cricket without government interference or funding. Its inclusion means Indian cricket’s governing body will now face increased government oversight, transparency requirements (including RTI applicability), and must adhere to broader sports governance standards, potentially changing how cricket is run in India.
The bill requires all National Sports Federations, including the BCCI, to get recognition from the National Sports Board, ensure accountability, hold timely elections, include athlete representation in executive committees, and comply with a formal dispute resolution framework through a new National Sports Tribunal.
The BCCI will need to align its functioning with national standards, including possible changes to election procedures, age limits for office bearers (now up to 75), and decision-making transparency. Its leadership and policies may be subject to review or intervention by the National Sports Board or Tribunal if disputes or complaints arise.
A major motivation is India’s planned cricket participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, which requires the BCCI to be recognized as a National Sports Federation under international and national guidelines. Bringing the BCCI under the bill also addresses calls for greater transparency and accountability in sports administration.