Controversy Erupts Over Pickleball Federation Recognition in India: AIPA Challenges MYAS Decision
Legal Battle Erupts Over Recognition of Indian Pickleball Association
In a significant development for the burgeoning sport of pickleball in India, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has officially recognized the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) as the National Sports Federation. However, this decision has sparked controversy, leading the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) to file a writ petition in the Delhi High Court challenging the recognition.
AIPA’s Legal Challenge
On Thursday, Justice Sachin Dutta of the Delhi High Court heard the petition filed by AIPA, which argues that the recognition granted to IPA violates the Sports Code. "The Sports Code mandates that an association must be at least three years old, among other criteria, which the IPA has not fulfilled," stated Dayan Krishnan, Senior Advocate representing AIPA.
The court has directed MYAS to submit an affidavit explaining the rationale behind granting exemptions to the IPA under the Sports Code. AIPA contends that the recognition of IPA is arbitrary and unsustainable under the law. The matter has been adjourned for interim relief until May 19, 2025.
Concerns Over Compliance
The MYAS issued a notification on April 25, 2025, recognizing IPA as the sole national sports federation for pickleball. However, this recognition has raised eyebrows, particularly because the IPA was registered only in November 2024, while AIPA has been operational since 2008 and boasts affiliations with 24 state bodies and around 10,000 players.
AIPA’s petition highlights that the IPA is in violation of at least 13 provisions of the Sports Code, with MYAS allegedly granting exemptions without sufficient justification. AIPA Treasurer Nikhil Mathare criticized the MYAS for recognizing what he termed a "bogus entity" formed after AIPA’s application for recognition.
Voices from the Community
The decision has left many players and administrators in a state of confusion. Rajath Kankar, Founder General Secretary of the Karnataka State Pickleball Association, expressed disbelief at the swift recognition of a five-month-old organization over a well-established body. "AIPA has been a pioneer in developing the sport in India. This decision raises questions about the future for players aligned with AIPA," he said.
In contrast, Alap Sharma, Secretary of the IPA, emphasized their commitment to growing the sport. "We’re focused on building a pipeline of talent and ensuring every Indian has access to the joy of pickleball," he stated.
The Road Ahead
As pickleball continues to gain popularity across the nation, this administrative tussle between AIPA and IPA could hinder the sport’s growth at a critical juncture. With the court’s decision pending, the future of pickleball governance in India remains uncertain, leaving players and enthusiasts anxious about the direction of the sport.
The recognition of the IPA may be seen as a "defining moment" by its leadership, but for many in the pickleball community, it raises more questions than answers. As the sport evolves, the need for clear governance and unity becomes increasingly vital.
