Indian Pickleball Association Legal Warning: The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) has strongly criticized the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) for ignoring official decisions, misleading people, and carrying out activities without permission. According to the IPA, AIPA is breaking Indian laws by using names that include “India” without being a recognized body.
IPA said it is the only group officially recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports as the National Sports Federation (NSF) for pickleball in India. It warned that AIPA’s use of “India” in its name, and the use of state names by AIPA’s local branches, goes against Indian law.
Breach of Official Rules
The Indian Pickleball Association pointed out that under the Sports Code of India, 2011, only NSFs approved by the government can use the country’s name in their titles. IPA said AIPA’s actions are a clear violation of these rules.
The IPA added that the state and national tournaments organized by AIPA and its branches are against official policies. These events are not legally valid and hurt the sport’s growth.
Misleading Certifications
The Indian Pickleball Association also raised concerns about AIPA’s equipment testing and certifications. It said these programs have no approval from Indian or global pickleball authorities.
According to IPA,
“Paddles or balls approved by AIPA are neither accepted in any tournaments sanctioned by the Indian Pickleball Association, the recognised NSF, nor are they accepted in international competitions.”
The IPA also said coach and referee training run by AIPA is not recognized by any official body. These training programs and certificates are only used to make money by misleading people.
Concerns Over Foreign Events
The Indian Pickleball Association responded to AIPA’s announcement of a “World Pickleball Championship” in India. The IPA said this tournament is not an official world championship, but a private event run by Jan Papi, a person based in Indonesia.
IPA said it is concerned about foreign players being brought into India for this event and for the “World Pickleball League” using tourist visas without required permission. These actions may break the rules of the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
IPA warned these could lead to serious security risks.
Final Warning to the Public
The Indian Pickleball Association ended by saying that AIPA has no legal right to act as a governing body for pickleball in India. It asked players, sponsors, and equipment brands to stay away from AIPA’s events and activities.
The IPA called AIPA’s efforts
“unauthorised, misleading, and potentially illegal.”
News in Brief: Indian Pickleball Association Legal Warning
The Indian Pickleball Association has warned the public against the All India Pickleball Association for breaking Indian laws and hosting unofficial events. It says AIPA’s use of national names, tournaments, and certifications are illegal and unapproved. IPA asked all players and sponsors to avoid involvement with AIPA.
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