Regulatory body contravenes CGF Constitution, Olympic Charter: CG

New Delhi, Aug 31 (UNI) Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) today said the Sports Regulatory Authority proposed to be set up by Government of India was in ''contravention of both the Olympic Charter and CGF Constitution''.

Expressing concern that such an authority would undermine the autonomy of both the IOA and federations under it, CGF President Michael Fennell said in a letter to Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Suresh Kalmadi that ''Governments should be seen as working in pertnership with sport and not directing sport''.

''I have recently become aware of the development of a draft National Sports Policy for India which I understand is currently out for consultation. The development of such by Government is of course to be applauded,'' Mr Fennell wrote.

''However, media reports seem to indicate that part of this policy looks to introduce a 'sports regulatory authority' which would be empowered to 'legislate on sports related issues'.

''If this is the intention of the draft policy either by design or default then it would be in contravention of both the Olympic Charter and the Constitution of the Commonwealth Games Federation,'' Mr Fennell said.

''The role of sport in society today is significant.

Government support is integral to maximising this. But, Governments should be seen as working in pertnership with sport and not directing sport,'' the CGF chief added.

Meanwhile, IOA General Secretary Randhir Singh, while acknowledging the letter from the GCF chief, said the reactions of the international sports bodies to the Government's proposed move was on expected lines.

Calling the Olympic Movement as ''paramount'', Mr Randhir Singh said, ''I suggest the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports takes note of this letter which is a warning signal as India is hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2010.'' Last week, IOA had also received a letter from Olympic Council of Asia on this issue.

UNI