Read Time: 04 minutes

Synopsis

A Supreme Court bench of Justices Abdul Nazeer and JK Maheshwari today extended the status quo granted by the Supreme Court on Thursday, restraining a Committee of Administrators (CoA) to take over and run the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). 

Court was hearing a plea by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) challenging the order of the Delhi High Court appointing a committee of administrators to run the IOA in order to bring its constitution to comply with the National Sports Code since IOA's elections have been delayed.

The bench issued notice in the plea and directed that the matter be listed after four weeks upon completion of pleadings. 

A Delhi High Court bench of justices Manmohan and Najmi Waziri had observed that all National Sports Federations (NSFs) should comply with the sports code and the International Olympic Committee’s Charter, failing which they will be de-recognised and all monetary benefits and other facilities will be stopped immediately.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta mentioned the matter before CJI's bench on Thursday and informed the court that the constitution of CoA will be considered an outside interference by the apex Olympic body and may lead to suspension of IOA. SG submitted that IOA is a unit of the international body and as per its rules if IOA is represented by a non-elected body, it will be treated as a third party interference.

SG argued that if and when the CoA takes over, there is a high chance of India being suspended from Olympic events. It was further submitted that it is a matter of national prestige at a global level. 

Court took into consideration his submission and directed the parties to maintain status quo. It further clarified that the charge will not be handed over to the CoA.

Case title: Indian Olympic Association Vs Union Of India