New Delhi: The International Kabaddi Federation (IKF) is set to lift the suspension on the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) next month, marking a significant turning point for the sport in the country. This decision comes after a court-appointed administrator handed over control to the newly elected body, paving the way for India’s return to international kabaddi competitions.
IKF President Vinod Kumar Tiwari announced that the ban, imposed in July 2024, will be officially lifted following an executive board meeting scheduled for next month. The move follows a Supreme Court order in February 2025, which directed the transfer of AKFI’s control to office bearers elected in December 2023.
The lifting of the ban is expected to reinvigorate kabaddi in India, which has been hampered by governance issues and inactivity in recent years. Tiwari acknowledged that the sport’s governing body had made mistakes, including not holding any tournaments for the past eight years.
Looking ahead, the IKF has ambitious plans to expand kabaddi’s global footprint. Tiwari revealed that the federation is in discussions to establish franchise-based leagues in Qatar and Thailand, with the aim of popularizing the sport in new regions. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to potentially secure kabaddi’s inclusion in future Olympic Games.
However, challenges remain. The IKF recently declared a Kabaddi World Cup held in London as an “unauthorized” event, highlighting ongoing issues with competing governing bodies in the sport. Tiwari emphasized that only teams authorized by AKFI should participate in international tournaments.
As kabaddi prepares to enter a new chapter, stakeholders are optimistic that the lifting of the ban will lead to increased participation, more frequent national championships, and a stronger presence for India in international competitions.
