National Sports Day: Exploring the Legal Framework supporting Sports in India

India observes National Sports Day annually on August 29th each year, commemorating the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, a hockey virtuoso whose legacy transcends mere athletic achievement.

But beyond the ceremonial tributes and fitness campaigns, this day also offers a moment to reflect on the legal framework that governs sports in India, a domain that’s rapidly evolving to meet the demands of modern athleticism, commercialization, and athlete welfare.

Why it’s celebrated

National Sports Day commemorates the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, born in 1905, widely, known as “The Wizard of Hockey”¹. Dhyan Chand helped India win three Olympic gold medals in hockey in 1928, 1932, and 1936². His legacy is not just about medals but about inspiring generations to pursue excellence in sports.

National Sports Day is celebrated to:

– Pay tribute to Major Dhyan Chand.

– Promote sports and fitness among citizens, especially the youth.

– Encourage awareness about the role of sports in building discipline, teamwork, and national pride.

The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, while extending his greetings on National Sports Day stated:

“In the last decade, India’s sporting landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation. From grassroots programmes that nurture young talent to creating world-class facilities, we are seeing a vibrant sports ecosystem in our nation. Our government remains committed to supporting athletes, building infrastructure and making India a global hub for sporting excellence.”³

Brief history & significance:

India’s sporting history is rich and diverse from traditional games like kabaddi and kho-kho to global sports like cricket, badminton, and wrestling. Post-independence, Indian sports were seen as a tool for national pride and unity. However, legal regulation remained fragmented.

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) was established in 1984 to promote and develop sports infrastructure, and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports oversees policy.

Sports law in India:

The intersection of sports and law is no longer peripheral, it is central for ensuring fairness, accountability, and the protection of stakeholders across the spectrum. In India, the legal governance of sports is fragmented, regulated by:

• Autonomous bodies such as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Indian Olympic Association (IOA), and Sports Authority of India (SAI).

• Government regulations, such as the National Sports Development Code (NSDC).

• Judicial interventions, which often step in to resolve disputes or enforce transparency.

Athlete Rights:

Athletes face a wide range of challenges not only performance pressures or physical injuries, but also legal and administrative hurdles that can significantly impact their livelihood, dignity, and future prospects. As sports become increasingly professional and commercialized, the need for robust legal protections grows stronger. Key areas include:

• Contractual Agreements for athletes when collaborating with clubs, sponsors, and federations. These contracts govern everything from salary and bonuses to performance expectations and termination clauses.

• Anti-Doping Regulations, enforced in India by the National Anti-Doping Agency (‘NADA’), require athletes to adhere to strict guidelines regarding banned substances. Athletes accused of violations have the right to a fair hearing, legal representation, and the ability to appeal decisions.⁴

• Protection from Harassment and Discrimination is another critical area, especially for women in sports. Laws like the POSH Act (Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013) mandate safe and respectful environments, but enforcement remains inconsistent across institutions.

• Dispute Resolution Mechanisms are essential for addressing issues such as unfair selection, disciplinary actions, or breach of contract. India still lacks specialized sports tribunals, making it difficult for athletes to access timely and fair justice.

Intellectual Property Rights in Sports

With the commercialization of sports, intellectual property (‘IP’) rights have become central to the financial viability of athletes and sports organizations. This area introduces complex legal challenges that require careful navigation.

– Broadcasting Rights: Live coverage and media distribution are major revenue streams. Legal protection ensures that broadcasters and sports bodies retain control over content and monetization.⁵

– Sponsorship Agreements & Merchandising: Athletes’ names, images, and personal brands are often used in marketing. Contracts must be meticulously drafted to safeguard against unauthorized use and ensure fair compensation.

– Trademarks & Image Rights: Athletes and teams increasingly register trademarks to protect their identity and brand value. Legal enforcement helps prevent misuse and counterfeiting.

– Licensing & Royalties: Proper IP frameworks ensure that athletes and organizations benefit from licensing deals and receive royalties from merchandise and media content.

IP laws play a vital role in safeguarding commercial interests, promoting innovation, and preventing unauthorized exploitation.

E- sports & Online Gaming:

Digital sports are reshaping the athletic landscape. E-sports and online gaming have emerged as powerful platforms for skill, strategy, and youth engagement. With new regulations now distinguish skill-based e-sports from gambling, the focus has shifted toward creating safe, fair, and inclusive digital arenas.

Landmark judgements:

The judiciary has often stepped in to fill the legislative void, delivering landmark judgments that have reshaped the contours of sports law in India. Notable are:

Cricket Association of Bihar v. BCCI (2016) 8 SCC 535, wherein the Supreme Court mandated sweeping reforms in the governance of cricket, leading to the appointment of the Lodha Committee.

Zee Telefilms Ltd. v. Union of India (2005) 4 SCC 649, the Supreme Court ruled that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not “State” under Article 12 of the Constitution, thereby limiting the scope of constitutional remedies against it.

Narsingh Yadav v. NADA⁶

Wrestler Narsingh Yadav was banned for doping just before the Rio Olympics. The case highlighted the need for fair and transparent anti-doping procedures.

Gurdeep Singh Sachar v. Union of India 2019 SCC OnLine Bom 13059, addressed the legality of online gaming, affirming their status as games of skill rather than chance.

State of Bombay v. R.M.D. Chamarbaugwala (1957) SCC OnLine SC 11, the Supreme Court held that gambling is not protected as trade under the Constitution, as it lies outside the scope of lawful commerce.

K. Murugan v. Fencing Association of India (1991) 2 SCC 412, the Supreme Court underscored the importance of fair governance and internal democracy within sports bodies to safeguard athletes’ rights and prevent arbitrary exclusion.

Sports Law and Policies

India is steadily progressing toward a more structured and athlete-centric legal framework for sports. Recent developments reflect a growing commitment to governance, transparency, and athlete welfare. Key initiatives include:

○ National Sports Development Code (NSDC)

○ Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025

○ National Anti-Doping Act, 2022

○ National Sports Governance Act, 2025

○ National Sports Policy 2025

○ Khelo India Scheme

○ Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)

As India’s sporting ambitions grow, so must the systems that support them. National Sports Day is a timely reminder of the need for strong legal foundations that protect athletes, uphold fair governance, and encourage ethical growth. With thoughtful reforms and inclusive policies, India can build a future where sports thrive on and off the field.