Supreme Court Mandate Reshapes Indian Football Administration
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has officially implemented a crucial constitutional provision following a direct order from the Supreme Court of India. This landmark change prohibits football officials from holding positions simultaneously in both national and state-level football organizations, marking a significant step toward administrative reform in Indian football.
Constitutional Changes and Timeline
The national football federation formally adopted Article 25.3 (c) and (d) of its constitution on Monday, complying with the Supreme Court's directive issued on October 15, 2025. The court had given the AIFF a three-week deadline to implement these specific articles that explicitly prevent executive committee members of the national body from maintaining positions in state associations.
During a virtual Special General Meeting, the AIFF approved these constitutional changes. The federation stated, "The AIFF Constitution is now in accordance with the directions of the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India and the framework recommended by Justice (Retd) L Nageswara Rao. With this, a matter pending since 2017 stands conclusively resolved."
Current Administration Exempted Until 2026
The current AIFF administration led by President Kalyan Chaubey will remain unaffected by this change until their term concludes in September 2026. The Supreme Court bench comprising Justices PS Narasimha and Joymalya Bagchi validated the current executive committee's election and determined that new elections were unnecessary given the remaining one-year tenure.
This development follows the Supreme Court's approval of the draft constitution on September 19, which was prepared by former judge L Nageswara Rao with some modifications. The federation had initially been given four weeks to adopt the constitution but had previously excluded two controversial articles - 23.3 and 25.3 (c) and (d) - awaiting further court direction.
Resolution of Longstanding Issue
The AIFF expressed appreciation for all stakeholders involved in resolving this matter that had been pending since 2017. In their official statement, the federation emphasized their commitment to "develop, govern, and promote football across India" while aligning with the statutes of FIFA and the AFC.
The implementation of these clauses addresses concerns about concentration of power and potential conflicts of interest within Indian football administration. The prohibition of dual positions is expected to create more opportunities for fresh leadership and specialized focus at both national and state levels of football governance.
