In a significant move, the Sports Ministry has taken decisive action by suspending the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) for its failure to conduct timely elections and non-compliance with established guidelines. Despite the expiry of the previous Executive Committee’s term, PCI delayed the election process, raising concerns about democratic principles and good governance in Indian sports. With the upcoming elections scheduled after a substantial gap from the expiry of the previous term, questions arise about PCI’s adherence to its own constitution and the Sports Code. How will this suspension impact the future of Paralympic sports in India, and what measures will be taken to ensure transparent and democratic governance within PCI?
What went wrong with PCI?
The recent suspension of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) by the Sports Ministry, under the leadership of Deepa Malik, has sent shockwaves through the Indian sporting community. This move comes as a response to what the Ministry has termed as a deliberate delay by the PCI in conducting crucial elections for its executive committee, raising serious concerns about democratic processes and principles of good governance within the organization.
The saga leading to the suspension traces back to the last elections held in September 2019. However, legal complexities arose following an order from the Delhi High Court in W.P. No. 10647/2019, which stalled the election process and prevented the declaration of results by the Returning Officer. It wasn’t until January 27, 2020, that the Delhi High Court allowed the declaration of these results, marking the end of the four-year term of the Executive Committee of PCI on January 31, 2024.
Despite the expiration of the previous committee’s term, the PCI announced elections only for March 28, 2024, in Bengaluru, leaving a significant gap of nearly two months after the term’s end. The Sports Ministry expressed clear dissatisfaction with this delay, citing PCI’s awareness of the term’s expiration and branding the decision as “willful, intentional, and without any valid reason.” Such actions, according to the Ministry, undermine democratic processes and principles of good governance mandated under the National Sports Development Code of India.
The suspension of PCI’s recognition by the Sports Ministry underscores the gravity of the situation and the necessity to uphold governance and accountability standards in sports federations nationwide. The Ministry emphasized the importance of adhering strictly to the Sports Code, leaving no choice but to suspend PCI’s recognition until further notice.
In response to the suspension, the Sports Ministry directed the Sports Authority of India (SAI) to collaborate with the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) to establish an Ad Hoc Committee. This committee will comprise eminent administrators and sportspersons tasked with overseeing PCI’s operations and conducting free, fair, and transparent elections in accordance with the Sports Code and the constitution of PCI. This measure aims to safeguard the interests of Indian para-sportspersons and para-sports disciplines amidst the current administrative upheaval.
Furthermore, the Ministry reiterated the importance of timely elections, stipulating that elections for new office bearers in the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and National Sports Federations (NSFs) should occur at least one month before the expiry of the term of the office bearers. This directive underscores the commitment to democratic processes and transparent governance within the Indian sporting landscape.The suspension of the Paralympic Committee of India by the Sports Ministry reflects a firm stance on upholding governance standards and ensuring accountability within sports federations.
Impact on the stakeholders
The suspension of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) by the Sports Ministry has raised significant concerns regarding its potential impact on Indian para-sportspersons and the various para-sports disciplines represented by the organization. As the apex body responsible for overseeing para-sports activities in the country, PCI plays a crucial role in the development, promotion, and support of athletes with disabilities across a wide range of sports.
One immediate consequence of PCI’s suspension is the disruption it may cause to the training and competition schedules of para-athletes. With the organization’s operations halted, there could be uncertainties regarding the availability of funding, coaching support, and logistical assistance for athletes preparing for domestic and international competitions. This disruption could impede the progress of athletes and hinder their ability to achieve peak performance levels.Furthermore, PCI’s suspension may also impact the participation of Indian para-sportspersons in international events and competitions. As the recognized national federation for para-sports in India, PCI plays a crucial role in facilitating the registration, accreditation, and participation of Indian athletes in various international tournaments, including the Paralympic Games. The suspension could potentially jeopardize India’s representation in such events, depriving athletes of valuable opportunities to showcase their talent on the global stage.Additionally, the suspension of PCI may have broader ramifications for the development and growth of para-sports disciplines across the country. PCI is responsible for coordinating and implementing programs aimed at grassroots development, talent identification, and infrastructure enhancement in para-sports. The suspension could disrupt these initiatives, impacting the accessibility and availability of sporting opportunities for athletes with disabilities at the bottom level.
In response to these challenges, the Sports Ministry has directed the establishment of an Ad Hoc Committee to oversee PCI’s operations and ensure the continuity of support for Indian para-sportspersons. This committee, comprising eminent administrators and sportspersons, will be tasked with safeguarding the interests of athletes and para-sports disciplines during this period of transition.Despite the uncertainties posed by PCI’s suspension, stakeholders within the Indian para-sports community remain committed to overcoming these challenges and advancing the development of para-sports in the country. Through collaborative efforts and strategic interventions, they aim to mitigate the impact of the suspension and uphold the integrity and inclusivity of para-sports in India.
International Paralympic Commitee’s involvement in this matter
In addition to the oversight and support provided by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), recent developments indicate a significant intervention by the global governing body for para sports in the affairs of the Paralympic movement in India. According to reports from New Delhi, the IPC has taken decisive action in response to the suspension of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) by the Sports Ministry.The global governing body’s intervention underscores the seriousness of the situation and the broader implications of PCI’s suspension on the Indian para-sports landscape. With the IPC stepping in, it signifies a unified effort to address governance issues and uphold the integrity of para-sports in India.The IPC’s involvement is expected to bring added scrutiny and oversight to the ongoing developments within PCI. As a recognized authority in para sports worldwide, the IPC is well-positioned to provide guidance, support, and expertise to ensure that PCI adheres to international standards and best practices in governance.
Furthermore, the IPC’s intervention may facilitate dialogue and collaboration between PCI, the Sports Ministry, and other stakeholders to resolve the underlying issues that led to the suspension. By fostering constructive engagement and cooperation, the IPC aims to pave the way for the restoration of transparent and accountable governance within PCI.The IPC’s intervention serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the global para-sports community and the importance of upholding universal principles of fairness, inclusivity, and respect for para-athletes’ rights. Through its actions, the IPC reaffirms its commitment to supporting the growth and development of para-sports worldwide while ensuring that the integrity of the Paralympic movement remains uncompromised.
Conclusion
It is imperative for PCI to prioritize reforms and demonstrate a commitment to democratic processes and good governance. The establishment of an Ad Hoc Committee to oversee PCI’s operations is a step in the right direction, but sustained efforts will be needed to rebuild trust and credibility within the Indian para-sports community. Through collective engagement and cooperation, stakeholders can work towards ensuring the continuity and growth of para-sports in India while upholding the rights and welfare of para-athletes. Ultimately, the suspension of PCI serves as a wake-up call for the need to uphold governance standards and accountability within sports federations. By learning from this experience and implementing necessary reforms, the Indian para-sports community can emerge stronger and more resilient, ensuring that the principles of fairness, inclusivity, and transparency remain at the forefront of its operations.
Written by – Ruchika Kothari
Edited by – Khalid Khursheed