Supreme Court Questions BCCI’s Exclusion From National Sports Governance Act

The Supreme Court has sought an explanation from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and state cricket associations on why they should not come under the National Sports Governance Act, 2025. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice Mohan heard a petition filed by several cricket associations concerning the BCCI. During the hearing, the court noted that the BCCI is currently outside the ambit of the legislation and sought reasons for its exclusion.

The National Sports Governance Act was introduced with the objective of promoting transparency, accountability and good governance in sports administration. While several national sports federations are covered by the legislation, the BCCI has remained outside its scope. The Supreme Court has previously intervened in BCCI administration, including through reforms based on the Lodha Committee recommendations. Although the BCCI is an autonomous body registered under the Societies Registration Act and is not directly controlled by the government, it remains subject to judicial scrutiny. At the same time, it works with government authorities on matters such as sports policy, taxation and permissions for international matches, while ICC rules require national cricket boards to remain free from government interference.