IPA Applauds Delhi High Court's Ruling on Recognition and Commits to Full Cooperation
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New Delhi, April 9 (NationPress) The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) expressed its satisfaction on Thursday following the Delhi High Court's decision to not impose a stay on its recognition as the National Sports Federation (NSF) for pickleball within India.
This outcome follows a Letters Patent Appeal (LPA) initiated by the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), which contested a previous order from February 2, 2026. In that ruling, a Single Judge had dismissed AIPA's challenge against the recognition awarded to the IPA.
During the recent hearing on April 7, the Division Bench issued a notice regarding the appeal and instructed the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) to present documentation concerning the recognition process of the IPA.
The court also highlighted that recognition of sports organizations, per the National Sports Development Code of India, is subject to annual evaluations. Accordingly, it mandated the Union Government to permit AIPA to submit written representations and advocate its case while considering the IPA's renewal application.
However, the court rejected AIPA's request to suspend the recognition granted to the IPA or to overturn the earlier Single Judge's ruling. It also dismissed the plea for the government to conduct the review process without heeding the observations from the previous judgment.
In response to these developments, the IPA emphasized its respect for the court's commitment to transparency and compliance with the Sports Code. The association expressed confidence that a thorough examination of all relevant records will reinforce its position and its contribution to advancing the sport across the nation.
The IPA reaffirmed its dedication to adhering to the regulatory standards established by MYAS and stated that it will persist in fully cooperating with both the government and the judiciary.
The case is set for another hearing on May 11, 2026.