New Delhi, September 20: The Supreme Court on Friday delivered a landmark verdict reshaping the governance of Indian football. After nearly eight years of litigation, the bench approved a fresh constitution for the All India Football Federation (AIFF), aiming to bring transparency, player participation, and compliance with national sports policies.
Background
The case began in 2010 when activist Rahul Mehra questioned the opaque functioning of sports bodies. In 2017, the Delhi High Court scrapped AIFF elections citing violations of the National Sports Development Code. The Supreme Court stepped in, appointing committees and former judges to oversee reforms while India faced a temporary FIFA suspension in 2022.
Court’s Observations
During final hearings stretching from April to September 2025, the bench noted football’s role in fostering “fraternity and inclusiveness” across India.
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Justice Chandrachud, heading the bench, remarked, “Sport is a constitutional value as much as a public activity. Administration must mirror this spirit.”
The Court upheld the inclusion of 15 retired international players, with at least five women, in AIFF’s General Body despite opposition from some state associations. “It is certain that the presence of eminent players heralds transparency and fair play,” the bench observed.
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Eligibility for “eminent players” was slightly eased: male players need five international matches, and female players two, ensuring a wider pool. The judges also approved three vice-presidents, including one woman, balancing representation with efficiency.
On disqualifications, the Court softened earlier drafts-public servants are barred only if they are ministers or full-time government employees. It also ruled that mere framing of criminal charges cannot disqualify a candidate; only conviction with a two-year sentence will.
Decision
Concluding the marathon hearing, the Supreme Court formally adopted the amended constitution proposed by former Justice L. Nageswara Rao. It directed the AIFF to hold its next elections strictly under these new rules, ensuring compliance with the National Sports Development Code and upcoming National Sports Governance Act.
“The game must belong to its players and its fans,” the bench stated while disposing of the appeals. “These reforms are the baseline for accountability. From here, Indian football must rise.”
Case Title: All India Football Federation vs. Rahul Mehra & Others (Supreme Court of India, 2025)
Citation: 2025 INSC 1131
Appeal Numbers: Civil Appeal arising out of SLP (C) Nos. 30748–30749 of 2017
Judgment Date: 20 September 2025
