Cricket is no longer a gentleman’s game anywhere. It has become a contentious issue in India. The Competitive Commission of India ( CCI) has decided to impose a fine of Rs. 52.24 Crore on the Board of Control of Cricket in India ( BCCI) on the complaint of a cricket fan. The CCI has ticked off the BCCI for using its position of strength to manipulate the grant of franchise and broadcasting rights for the Indian Premier League. The BCCI cannot escape accountability. Its structure is under criticism. It is registered under the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act and has regarded itself so far as a private club consortium. It lacks transparency though it selects the national team. The question of alternative platforms does not arise in its eyes and it acts as if it is the only Government agency.
The BCCI has a very controversial role on the National Sports Development Bill betraying its double standards. The bill seeks to make the BCCI a National Sports Federation. It therefore comes under the Right to Information ( RI). But the BCCI opposed the bill as it tampered with its autonomy. The BCCI has so far done its job reasonably well. But its lack of transparency affects cricket adversely. The repercussions can be seen in the IPL which has been troubled by clashing interests in interfering with honesty and fair play. The Board is expected to have the future of Indian cricket in mind. That calls for transparency, greater vigilance over its activities and total accountability.
