In a significant move to ensure proper governance in the sports sector, the Delhi High Court has appointed retired judge Justice Najmi Waziri as the Chairperson of an ad-hoc Administrative Committee (AAC) to oversee the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI).
Justice Tara Vitasta Ganju, who issued the directive, highlighted the need for effective administration within the EFI to uphold the integrity of equestrian sports in the country. The decision came after the Rajasthan Equestrian Association filed a complaint against the EFI’s management practices, particularly its decision to extend the tenure of its office bearers beyond the stipulated time without proper authorization from an Extra Ordinary General Meeting (EGM).
The AAC, under Justice Waziri’s leadership, will also include notable figures such as former Chief Election Commissioner of India Dr. S.Y. Quraishi, serving as an observer, and Advocate Rohini Musa, who will act as a committee member. This committee is tasked with managing the day-to-day operations and ensuring the EFI adheres to legal standards and sports governance codes.
In her ruling, Justice Ganju emphasized that the EFI had been functioning without a legitimate leadership body, which contradicted the guidelines laid out in the National Sports Development Code, 2011. She pointed out the irregularities in the EFI’s recent elections and the unauthorized extension of voting rights, which could potentially lead to the suspension of the federation’s recognition if not addressed promptly.
“This Court is aware of the repercussions of serious irregularities in the functioning of a National Sports Federation. It is imperative to avoid any action that could lead to the suspension of the federation’s recognition, as this would be detrimental not only to the sport but also to the athletes involved,” Justice Ganju stated.
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The court deemed the immediate appointment of the AAC as a crucial step to prevent further deterioration of the federation’s governance and to protect the interests of the sport and its participants.
