Why in news
The Supreme Court criticized the politicization of sports and the dominance of former judges and bureaucrats in sports bodies.
The Court stressed the need to restore democratic values and insisted that sports associations should be led by people with a genuine sports background.
The Court directed the Centre to ensure the participation of the women’s kabaddi team in the Senior Asian Kabaddi Championship in Iran (Feb 20-25).
The petition requested that the team be sent to the event after the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) lost its affiliation with the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF).
Allegations of Mismanagement in the Kabaddi Federation
Some former players questioned the legitimacy of the IKF’s ban on AKFI, alleging mismanagement and manipulation of rules for personal gain.
They urged the Court to align AKFI’s constitution with the National Sports Code and hold fresh elections.
Court's Directives for Action
The Court criticized sports bodies that operate irresponsibly from abroad and emphasized that only those with real contributions to sports should hold office.
The Centre was directed to take control of the IKF, audit its finances, and explore diplomatic solutions.
The Court instructed consulting with agencies like the CBI and Interpol for an effective investigation into the management of sports federations.
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