FICCI for a separate law to check corruption in sports

Amid a spate of allegations of corruption surrounding the upcoming Commonwealth Games, a leading industry lobby Sunday demanded a separate law to deal with corruption in sports.

Seeking wide-ranging, structural reforms in the business of sports, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry stressed the need for a law to deal with malpractices and corruption.

In a paper ‘India’s Sports Scenario’, FICCI said the proposed law ’should encompass proper regulation of sports and governing bodies, ensure minimum qualification criteria, fix a cap on the tenure of office-bearers of sporting federations and age restrictions.’

Referring to the report by global ratings agency Moody’s, which said ‘concerns regarding safety, security and site preparedness are tarnishing the country’s global image’, FICCI said India’s reputation as a tourist and investment destination could be damaged.

‘The law should also take care that there is meritocracy and equal opportunity in selection process,’ it added.

FICCI also wanted the law to provide for a mechanism for quick redressal of grievances of various stakeholders like players, teams, federations and sponsors.

It said a Court of Arbitration for various sports in India, similar to the one based in Laussane, Switzerland, can be set up.