PT Usha Seeks Clarity on Missing Role of State Olympic Associations in Draft Sports Bill 2024

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Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha has voiced concerns about the lack of clarity regarding the role of State Olympic Associations (SOAs) in the Draft Sports Bill 2024.

The bill, which aims to bring transparency and accountability to Indian sports governance, has stirred debate, particularly around the autonomy of National Sports Federations (NSFs) and the IOA.

In a stakeholders' meeting earlier, Usha emphasised the vital role SOAs play in nurturing grassroots sports talent and connecting national sports bodies with local communities.

"It is vital to include the roles of SOAs clearly in the governance framework," Usha wrote, warning that without proper recognition, the decentralisation of sports governance could be weakened. The absence of any defined role for SOAs, she argued, threatens their contribution to local-level sports events and development.

SOAs have historically been instrumental in facilitating state-level sports participation, bridging the gap between national and regional sporting efforts. By not addressing their role in the Draft Sports Bill, the government risks sidelining local entities that play a critical role in developing India's sporting talent.

Another key point of contention in the bill is the proposed creation of a Sports Regulatory Authority, which would monitor and oversee the functioning of various sports bodies. While this aims to prevent corruption and mismanagement, many-including Usha-are worried about the impact this may have on the autonomy of sports organisations, including the IOA and NSFs.

PT Usha warned that excessive government oversight could provoke a reaction from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which strongly opposes political interference in national sports governance.

Citing past instances where countries faced IOC sanctions for governmental overreach, Usha urged the Indian government to tread carefully. India itself was suspended by the IOC in 2012 due to interference in IOA elections, a situation that must be avoided.

PT Usha called on the government to reconsider key elements of the bill, particularly regarding the autonomy of sports bodies and the clearly defined roles of SOAs. "Balancing regulation with autonomy is essential to ensure India's alignment with international sports governance standards," Usha concluded.