Sports Ministry Issues Directive to DCCI Over Use of 'India' in Name
The Union Sports Ministry has formally instructed the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) to immediately stop using the words "India" or "Indian" in its name and all associated activities. This directive is based on the ministry's stance that the DCCI is not officially recognized as a National Sports Federation (NSF), a status required for bodies to use national identifiers.
Ministry Communication and Legal Warnings
In a communication addressed to DCCI Secretary Ravi Kant Chauhan, the ministry explicitly stated that only government-recognized federations are permitted to use these terms. The letter, as cited by news agency PTI, noted: "It has come to the notice of this Department that the expression 'India' is being used by your Federation... despite the fact that the said Federation is not recognised as National Sports Federation by this Ministry."
The ministry further warned: "It is hereby directed to desist from using the expression 'India' or 'Indian' in the name and/or any activities of your Federation. Unauthorized use of the said expressions are liable for appropriate action under the extant rules and applicable laws."
DCCI's Response and Plea for Recognition
Ravi Kant Chauhan confirmed receipt of the ministry's letter and responded by requesting that the DCCI be granted NSF status. He emphasized the council's contributions to differently-abled cricket in India, stating: "My plea to ministry would be to accord us NSF status as we have been running the Differently Abled Cricket in the country. We have organised World Cups, Asia Cups, national tournaments as well bilateral series. Our national team has played in England, Sri Lanka. The BCCI also recognises us."
Chauhan also highlighted that the DCCI, while not officially recognized by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), does have the board's backing. Notably, the BCCI itself is not a recognized NSF. He called for similar action against other organizations involved in differently-abled cricket, such as the Cricket Association for Blind and the Wheelchair Association, to ensure uniform enforcement.
Broader Context and Other Affected Bodies
The ministry's directive is part of a broader enforcement effort under the National Sports Governance Act. According to a ministry source, all sports bodies must now seek recognition from the National Sports Board, which is yet to be established, to receive official approval. Similar notices have been issued to other organizations, including the Women's Football Federation of India and the Indian Body Builders' Federation.
Taekwondo Federation Loses Recognition
In a related development, the ministry has withdrawn recognition from the Taekwondo Federation of India and stated that India Taekwondo will not be granted recognition as the sport's governing body. This decision followed directions from the Delhi High Court, which had asked both factions to justify their claims.
The ministry explained: "Upon further examination, it has been observed that the Constitution/Memorandum of Association (MoA)/Bye-laws of Taekwondo Federation of India and India Taekwondo are not fully in conformity with the Sports Code... as on date, both the parties... do not fully meet the conditions prescribed in the guidelines for recognition of NSFs." Consequently, neither federation currently qualifies for government recognition.
This series of actions underscores the ministry's commitment to enforcing compliance with the National Sports Development Code of India, 2011, and highlights the ongoing challenges faced by sports bodies in securing official status amid evolving governance frameworks.
