Army's Decades-Long Control Over Equestrian Federation of India Comes to an End
In a significant development for Indian sports governance, the Army's decades-long hold over the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) has officially ended. This major transition follows a directive from the Delhi High Court, which prompted the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to establish an ad-hoc committee to oversee and manage the federation's operations.
Formation of the Ad-Hoc Committee
The newly formed four-member panel will be chaired by Yashodhara Raje Scindia, the former Minister of Sports and Youth Welfare for Madhya Pradesh. Scindia brings substantial administrative experience to this crucial role, which involves steering the federation through a period of comprehensive reform.
The committee's other members include:
- Francisco Lima, the International Equestrian Federation's (FEI) Director of Governance
- Vidushpat Singhania, a prominent advocate with expertise in sports law
- Colonel (Retired) Ashok Yadav, former Joint Secretary (Technical) of the EFI
Background of Judicial Scrutiny and Governance Issues
The EFI has been under intense judicial scrutiny for several years due to persistent governance failures, internal factionalism, and repeated non-compliance with the national sports code. These issues have hampered the federation's ability to function effectively and promote equestrian sports across the country.
The federation last conducted elections in 2019 for a standard four-year term, with the current executive committee's tenure concluding in 2023. The absence of timely elections and proper governance structures necessitated judicial intervention, leading to the Delhi High Court's directive for the IOA to take charge.
Mandate and Responsibilities of the Ad-Hoc Committee
In her official order, IOA President PT Usha outlined a comprehensive mandate for the ad-hoc committee. The panel is tasked with several critical responsibilities to restore proper governance and compliance within the EFI.
- Constitutional Alignment: The committee must align the EFI's constitution and bye-laws with the National Sports Governance Act 2025 and the corresponding rules of 2026.
- Structural Reorganization: It will restructure the general body and membership framework to ensure full compliance with existing laws and regulations.
- State Unit Compliance: The panel must verify that the constitutions and bye-laws of all affiliated state units are fully compliant with national standards.
- Athletes Commission Elections: Conducting free, fair, and transparent elections for the athletes commission is a priority to ensure proper athlete representation.
- Electoral College Formation: The committee will oversee the lawful constitution of the electoral college, which is essential for future federation elections.
This transition marks a pivotal moment for Indian equestrian sports, potentially paving the way for improved administration, greater transparency, and enhanced development of the sport at both national and international levels.
