Delhi High Court Upholds Taekwondo Federation of India as Recognized NSF, Orders Re-evaluation

Court sets aside Union Government's recognition of a parallel Taekwondo body, calls for adherence to procedural safeguards under Sports Code

In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has set aside the Union of India's decision to recognize India Taekwondo as the National Sports Federation (NSF) for Taekwondo, while affirming the Taekwondo Federation of India (TFI) as the recognized NSF for the sport. The judgment was delivered by Justice Sachin Datta, who criticized the procedural lapses in the recognition process and called for a re-evaluation in line with the National Sports Development Code of India, 2011 (Sports Code).

The case arose when the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) recognized India Taekwondo as the NSF despite TFI holding the position since March 2023. The court observed that MYAS did not follow the procedural safeguards outlined in the Sports Code before withdrawing recognition from TFI. Justice Datta emphasized that only one federation per sport discipline is permissible, and the recognition of India Taekwondo was set aside due to non-compliance with procedural requirements.

The judgment highlighted factional disputes within TFI and the controversial formation of India Taekwondo by members of an ad-hoc committee appointed by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). The court noted that the recognition of an NSF cannot be solely based on directives from an international body, stressing the need for ethics, transparency, and good governance practices.

Justice Datta directed the Union of India to reconsider the recognition issue, providing stakeholders an opportunity to present their case before issuing a reasoned order. Until the review is completed, TFI will continue to function as the NSF for Taekwondo in India, ensuring the continuity of governance and representation in international events.

The ruling underscores the importance of adhering to established protocols for sports governance and highlights the judiciary's role in maintaining the integrity of national sports federations.

Bottom Line:

Recognition of National Sports Federation (NSF) - Procedural safeguards under National Sports Development Code of India, 2011 (Sports Code) must be adhered to before suspension or withdrawal of recognition - Only one recognized federation for each sport discipline is permissible under Clause 3.10 of Sports Code.

Statutory provision(s):  

• - National Sports Development Code of India, 2011 Clauses 3.10 and 8.5  
• - Annexure III Recognition of National Sports Federation (NSF)

Taekwondo Federation Of India v. Union of India, (Delhi) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2810208