The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) expressed satisfaction with the Delhi High Court’s ruling not to halt its recognition as the National Sports Federation (NSF) for pickleball in India. This decision followed a recent hearing where the court addressed an appeal by the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) challenging a previous order from February 2, 2026, dismissing AIPA’s objections to IPA’s recognition. The Division Bench of the High Court issued a notice on the appeal and instructed the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) to furnish records related to the recognition process of IPA.
Under the National Sports Development Code of India, the court highlighted that sports bodies’ recognition is subject to annual review. Accordingly, it directed the Union Government to permit AIPA to submit written representations and state its case during the renewal application evaluation for IPA. Despite AIPA’s request, the court declined to suspend IPA’s recognition or the earlier Single Judge’s ruling. It also rejected the plea to instruct the government to conduct the review without considering the previous judgment’s observations.
IPA responded by affirming its respect for the court’s emphasis on transparency and adherence to the Sports Code. The association expressed confidence that a comprehensive review of all records will reinforce its stance and its efforts in advancing the sport nationwide. IPA reiterated its commitment to complying with MYAS’s regulatory standards and pledged full cooperation with both the government and the court. The next hearing on this matter is scheduled for May 11, 2026.
