New Delhi

The Differently-Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) has mounted a strong defence against the Sports Ministry’s directive barring it from using the words “India” or “Indian” in its name and activities, calling the move a “selective and targeted action” rather than part of a uniform policy.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports issued the directive on Friday, stating that since the DCCI is not a recognised National Sports Federation (NSF), its use of “India” or “Indian” is unauthorised. The ministry also pointed out that recognition is mandatory for bodies seeking to represent the country officially.

In its response, the DCCI argued that the ministry’s stance was inconsistent and discriminatory, noting that several other sports bodies continue to use “India” in their nomenclature despite lacking formal recognition. The council further highlighted that it enjoys the backing of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which itself is not a recognised NSF.

“We express our profound concern regarding the communication issued by your office dated February 26, 2026. This directive, which challenges our use of the word ‘India’, appears to be a selective and targeted action rather than a reflection of a uniform, department-wide policy,” said the response signed by DCCI general secretary Ravikant Chauhan.

The DCCI said issuing such a directive exclusively to it, while ignoring other bodies, creates a perception of inequity and bias, which runs contrary to principles of natural justice and fair administrative action. It cited examples such as the Taekwondo Federation of India, Karate Association of India and the Modern Pentathlon Federation of India, none of which currently enjoy full recognition from the ministry.

“The Ministry’s current stance is demonstrably inconsistent. Numerous sports federations and associations operate without formal recognition, yet continue to use ‘India’ in their names without interference,” the DCCI said. It also alleged that organisations like the Divyang Cricket Control Board of India and the All India Cricket Association for the Physically Challenged have been granted no-objection certificates despite being unrecognised.

The council demanded withdrawal of the directive and sought formal recognition from the ministry. It also requested a personal hearing before any further adverse decision is taken, asserting its right to be heard.

Emphasising its credentials, the DCCI said it is the only body of its kind officially supported by the BCCI and operates under the oversight of the BCCI’s Differently Abled Cricket Committee. It added that it is affiliated with international governing bodies for disabled cricket and that all national and international events organised by it are held with prior approval of the Sports Ministry.

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The matter, the DCCI said, goes beyond nomenclature and relates directly to the government’s stated commitment to empowering persons with disabilities through inclusive sports governance.