REFORMING SPORTS GOVERNANCE IN INDIA: A CRITICAL LEGAL ANALYSIS

Sports governance in India has emerged as a significant area of legal and institutional concern due to persistent issues such as corruption, lack of transparency, and weak accountability mechanisms. Despite the growing importance of sports in national development and international representation, the governance structure remains fragmented and largely dependent on policy guidelines rather than a comprehensive statutory framework. Sports bodies in India, including the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Indian Olympic Association, operate as autonomous entities but perform functions of public importance. This dual nature raises complex legal questions regarding their accountability and regulatory control. The study critically examines the legal framework, institutional challenges, and judicial interventions shaping sports governance in India, with the aim of identifying gaps and suggesting reforms.