SC Grants Elected Body Control Of Kabaddi Federation To Secure India’s Participation In Asian Championship

In a significant judicial intervention aimed at facilitating India’s representation in the upcoming Senior Asian Kabaddi Championship, the Supreme Court of India, on Thursday, conferred authority upon the newly elected governing body—established in December 2023—to oversee the operations of the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India.

A bench composed of Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh directed retired Justice S.P. Garg, who had been administering AKFI since his appointment by the Delhi High Court in 2018, to formally transfer operational control to the newly constituted governing body.

Importantly, the Court underscored that the governing body must undertake all necessary measures to ensure India’s participation in the championship, scheduled to be held in Iran from February 20 to 25, 2025. However, it was explicitly clarified that the transfer of charge does not constitute formal judicial recognition of the elected body and does not preclude the resolution of pending issues regarding its legitimacy.

Court was adjudicating a petition filed by national kabaddi players Priyanka and Pooja, who sought judicial intervention to secure their inclusion in the Senior Asian Kabaddi Championship (Women’s category). The petitioners argued that administrative uncertainties within AKFI were impeding their ability to compete internationally.

Court has mandated that all requisite formalities be completed by February 11, ensuring that the Indian team can participate in the tournament without administrative hindrances.

This directive underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the integrity of sports governance while safeguarding athletes’ rights to fair participation at an international level.

Read More: Supreme Court, Delhi High Court, States High Court, International