The Delhi High Court, under the bench of Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, heard a plea from the Central Government on Tuesday, requesting the release of funds to national sports federations. This funding is crucial for the preparation and participation of Indian sportspersons in international events, including potential involvement in the 2036 Olympics, which India intends to host.
The Central Government underscored the importance of robust support for the National Sports Federations (NSF) to enhance India’s sports development and international competitiveness. The plea highlighted the need for comprehensive training programs, participation in international competitions, and hosting events in India to prepare athletes for future successes and significantly boost India’s medal prospects.
During the hearing, the bench expressed a keen interest in the potential of hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics. Chief Justice Manmohan emphasized the significance of this opportunity, stating, “We can’t allow Olympics 2036 to go. I am looking at India and at 2036. If we are getting the Olympics in 2036, that would be a big thing. I am swayed by the 2036 Olympics.”
However, the application faced opposition from petitioner and senior advocate Rahul Mehra, who argued that the 2036 Olympics’ prospects were not directly dependent on these specific funds. Mehra criticized the Central Government’s past performance in supporting Indian sports, labeling it as the biggest obstruction to progress.
The government, represented by Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma and senior advocate Anil Soni, made a case for the immediate disbursement of funds as outlined in a scheme approved by a court order on April 25, 2023. This scheme allows for a two-year period or until the enactment of the National Sports Governance Bill, whichever comes first, covering expenses for athlete training, coaching, staff engagement, and hosting of national and international sporting events.
In previous rulings, the court had shown support for sports development under strict compliance. In June 2023, it permitted the release of funds for the Indian team’s participation in the Special Olympics World Games. Additionally, a significant order on June 3, 2022, mandated that no financial aid should be given to NSFs not adhering to legal sports administration standards.
