New Delhi: The Sports Ministry has notified the operational rules for the soon to be established National Sports Tribunal and National Sports Board, marking another significant step toward implementing the National Sports Governance Act passed last year.
The new framework is aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, and dispute resolution within Indian sports administration through specialised institutions and digital systems.
According to the notification, the National Sports Tribunal will function as an independent body dedicated to resolving sports related disputes across the country. The government expects the tribunal to reduce dependence on civil courts by providing a faster and more cost effective mechanism for handling conflicts linked to sports governance and administration.
A dedicated digital portal will also be developed for the tribunal. The platform will support online filing of disputes, submission of documents, notices, responses, and clarifications, along with virtual hearings and publication of orders. The ministry said the system is intended to ensure quicker and more efficient disposal of cases while maintaining complete legal records digitally.
The government further clarified that appointments to the tribunal will be overseen by a search cum selection committee headed by the Cabinet Secretary. The final number of tribunal members is yet to be announced.
The rules also specify that any serving judge from the Supreme Court of India or a High Court appointed to the tribunal must first resign or opt for voluntary retirement before assuming office.
Meanwhile, the National Sports Board will serve as the primary authority responsible for granting recognition to National Sports Bodies and ensuring compliance with governance, financial, and ethical standards.
The board will consist of a chairperson and two members, each serving a three year term, with an upper age limit of 65 years. Apart from affiliation related responsibilities, the NSB will maintain records of affiliate units and oversee the National Sports Election Panel roster.
The Board will also have the authority to frame model guidelines and regulations related to sports governance, giving it a major role in shaping the future administrative structure of Indian sports.
