Pickleball Power Struggle: The Sports Ministry of India recognized the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) as the national governing body on April 25, sparking a legal battle with the long-established All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), which challenged the decision in Delhi High Court on May 1.
Old vs. New in Pickleball Dispute
The AIPA, which claims to have introduced pickleball in India in 2007–08, has taken legal action against the government’s move to recognize the IPA, a body registered only in November last year. The court has asked the ministry and IPA to respond within two weeks.
“The IPA has been recognised by the ministry after a representation by the body a few days ago.” – (sports ministry official told pti)
Justice Sachin Datta, after hearing the petition filed by AIPA’s lawyer Hemant Phalpher, issued notices to the Sports Ministry and the IPA. The court requested the ministry to explain why it chose to recognize the IPA as the National Sports Federation and whether any exemptions were granted from the National Sports Code.
“whether any exemptions are granted to it (the IPA) from compliance with the National Sports Code. If so, the reasons behind it.” – (Delhi High Court)
Competing Claims and Court Challenge
The AIPA says the ministry’s action goes against the 2011 National Sports Code. This code says a body must exist for at least three years to qualify for national status. According to official records, the IPA was only registered four months ago.
“The AIPA gave a representation to the Sports Ministry on October 18 last year. But the ministry has decided to grant recognition to a four-month old company that has no organisational set-up, no district level presence like us,” AIPA treasurer Nikhil Mathure told PTI. AIPA president Arvind Prabhoo also released a statement, saying,
“This decision is not only disheartening but raises serious concerns regarding transparency and fairness in sports governance. In the interest of fair play and sportsmanship, we urge the Ministry to reconsider its decision and uphold the values of clean sports.” – (Arvind Prabhoo)
IPA Responds to Recognition
The IPA welcomed the government recognition and said it is focused on building the future of the sport in India. The association’s president, Suryaveer Singh Bhullar, posted on Instagram,
“This is a defining moment, but we see it as just the beginning. Our focus is firmly on the future, building a pipeline of talent, creating career opportunities, and ensuring every Indian has access to the joy and benefits of pickleball.” – (Suryaveer Singh Bhullar)
Background of the Sport and Global Divide
Pickleball is a fast-growing sport with roots in the United States. It mixes parts of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is played with a paddle and a plastic ball on a small court.
Globally, pickleball also faces disputes. Three groups claim to be the top body: the International Pickleball Federation (IPF), the World Pickleball Federation (WPF), and the newer Global Pickleball Federation (GPF). The AIPA is linked with IPF, while the IPA supports GPF, which says it has 52 international members.
What’s Next for Indian Pickleball
The case will be heard again on May 19. The outcome could decide which group controls the future of pickleball in India. The court’s ruling may also set a standard for how new sports bodies are recognized in the country.
News in Brief: Pickleball Power Struggle
The Sports Ministry’s recognition of the Indian Pickleball Association has led to a legal battle with the older All India Pickleball Association. AIPA has moved Delhi High Court, which asked the ministry and IPA to respond. The court seeks clarity on the decision’s legality under the National Sports Code.
ALSO READ: Growing Pickleball in India, How the Nation Can Turn Pickleball into a Major Sport