New Delhi, February 28 The Sports Ministry has directed the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) to refrain from using 'India' or 'Indian' in its name or activities, as it is not a recognized national federation.
In a letter to DCCI secretary Ravi Kant Chauhan, the ministry said that the use of 'India' or 'Indian' is only permitted for bodies that have been recognized by the government. Similar letters have also been sent to the Women's Football Federation of India and the Indian Body Builders' Federation, among others.
"...It has come to the notice of this Department that your Federation, namely, Differently-Abled Cricket Council of India, is using the expression "India", despite the fact that the said Federation is not recognized as a National Sports Federation by this Ministry," the letter stated.
"...it is hereby directed to desist from using the expression "India" or "Indian" in the name and/or any activities of your Federation. Unauthorized use of these expressions is liable for appropriate action under the extant rules and applicable laws," it warned.
Although not officially recognized by the BCCI, the DCCI has the backing of the Indian board, which is also not a recognized National Sports Federation (NSF). Chauhan acknowledged receiving the letter from the ministry and urged it to recognize DCCI.
"...it is not just us, but multiple sports bodies have been notified that they cannot use the word 'India' since they are not Registered NSF. My plea to the ministry would be to accord us NSF status, as we have been running differently-abled cricket in the country."
"We have organized World Cups, Asia Cups, and national tournaments as well as bilateral series. Our national team has played in England and Sri Lanka. The BCCI also recognizes us," Chauhan, the secretary of DCCI, told
