To ensure transparency and accountability, the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council has released a circular requiring unregistered sports associations to register themselves before seeking screening of teams for participation in National Level Championships. Indeed, the existence of a significant number of unregistered associations compared to the registered ones raises concerns about transparency and accountability in sports. The lack of registration implies that these associations are operating without proper authorization and oversight, which can lead to various issues. One major issue is the failure of these unregistered associations to maintain records for domestic sports competitions. This lack of record-keeping compromises the integrity of sports competitions and raises doubts about the authenticity and validity of sports certificates issued by these associations. Sports certificates should hold value and provide evidence of an individual’s achievements, skills, and participation in genuine sports events. Without proper record-keeping and adherence to guidelines, the validity of such certificates comes into question.
To address these concerns, the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council must take strict measures to ensure that sports associations comply with the registration process and follow the guidelines set forth by the Council. Additionally, the Sports Council should work towards creating awareness among athletes, parents, and the general public about the importance of participating in sports activities through registered associations. This will help channel efforts and resources towards legitimate sports organisations that operate with transparency and adhere to the required standards. While preventing these associations from participating in national events, it is crucial to safeguard the interests of the affected players. Talented players should not miss the opportunity to participate at the national level.