JKCA Set for New Era as Supreme Court Upholds Lodha Committee-Based Constitution

New Delhi, 18-03-2025: In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has upheld the newly drafted constitution of the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), marking a pivotal step towards restructuring the administration of cricket in the region. The constitution was formulated under the supervision of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) following directives issued by the Jammu and Kashmir High Court in March 2021. The High Court had transferred JKCA’s management to the BCCI and mandated that its constitution be aligned with the recommendations of the Lodha Committee, as previously approved by the Supreme Court.

To execute this directive, the BCCI appointed a three-member Sub-Committee in June 2021, comprising Brigadier Anil Gupta, former international cricketer Mithun Manhas, and senior advocate Sunil Sethi. The committee worked meticulously to draft a framework that ensures transparency, accountability, and fairness in JKCA’s administration. After extensive consultations with stakeholders, legal reviews, and discussions with cricketing bodies, the draft constitution was formally approved by the BCCI.

However, the process of implementing the new constitution faced multiple hurdles, particularly from certain affiliated clubs that sought to challenge its registration. Their objections led to delays in the formal adoption of the constitution and, subsequently, the election process. With the Supreme Court’s verdict today dismissing these objections, the path has now been cleared for JKCA’s constitutional framework to take effect. The Court ruled that the BCCI-approved constitution would be considered final, paving the way for the much-anticipated elections in the association.

During the crucial hearing, Solicitor General of India, Tushar Mehta, represented the BCCI, with Advocate Achyut Dubey appearing on behalf of the JKCA. Additionally, Brigadier Anil Gupta and Mithun Manhas were present in court, advocating for the Sub-Committee’s role in ensuring a smooth transition in JKCA’s governance.

Speaking on the development, Brigadier Gupta emphasized the committee’s commitment to upholding judicial mandates and introducing much-needed reforms in JKCA’s management. “We worked diligently and responsibly to bring in transparency, streamline administrative processes, and ensure fairness in player selections. The registration process had been stalled due to objections, but with the Supreme Court’s intervention, the transition will now move forward smoothly,” he stated.

With this decision, JKCA now stands at the threshold of a new era in cricket administration, where governance will be guided by a structured, legally sound framework. The implementation of the revised constitution is expected to enhance efficiency in JKCA’s operations, foster a more inclusive selection process, and strengthen the overall cricketing infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. The Supreme Court’s verdict also reinforces the authority of the BCCI in overseeing cricket associations across the country, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.