Section 12 of The National Sports Governance Act, 2025
- (1)Every National Sports Body shall formulate a Code of Ethics for the members of its Executive Committee and other committees, employees, staff, sponsors, coaches, athletes, officials, members, affiliates and such other relevant persons, in accordance with the guidelines specified by the Board.
- (2)The Code of Ethics shall establish minimum standards for the ethical and appropriate conduct of the persons specified in sub-section (1).
- (3)The Code of Ethics shall be framed in accordance with the Code of Ethics of the International Sports Bodies and in consonance with the applicable laws in India.
- (4)The Code of Ethics shall provide measures for protection of vulnerable persons against abuse by person in a position of trust, responsibility or authority. Explanation.---For the purposes of this sub-section, "person in a position of trust" means any person who exercises authority, control or influence over another person, or a person on whom another person is dependent and who is connected or associated with the affairs of the National Sports Body.
Summary
- Every National Sports Body is required to create a Code of Ethics for its staff, committee members, athletes, coaches, sponsors, and officials.
- This Code must set minimum standards for good and ethical behavior, following guidelines given by the Board, international sports rules, and Indian laws.
- The Code must specifically include rules to protect vulnerable people from being abused by anyone who holds a position of trust, responsibility, or authority.
- A "person in a position of trust" means anyone who has authority or influence over another dependent person within the sports organization.
Practical examples
FAQ
1. Who actually writes the Code of Ethics?
Each National Sports Body formulates its own Code, but they must follow guidelines specified by the Board.
2. Who does the Code of Ethics apply to?
It applies broadly to executive members, staff, sponsors, coaches, athletes, officials, and affiliates.
3. Does the Code have to match international rules?
Yes, it must be framed in accordance with the Code of Ethics of the International Sports Bodies, as well as Indian law.
Test yourself
Q1.Under Section 12 of The National Sports Governance Act, 2025, who bears the primary responsibility for formulating the Code of Ethics for a specific sports discipline?
Q2.Under Section 12 of The National Sports Governance Act, 2025, what specific protection must the Code of Ethics provide regarding vulnerable persons?
Q3.Under Section 12 of The National Sports Governance Act, 2025, how is a "person in a position of trust" legally defined for the purpose of the Code of Ethics?
Q4.Under Section 12 of The National Sports Governance Act, 2025, besides aligning with the Board's guidelines and applicable Indian laws, what else must the Code of Ethics be in consonance with?