Sports Minister Jitendra Singh on Wednesday said that the stand-off between the government and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) over the contentious Sports Code was nearing resolution, a development which could pave the way for India putting up a united front in the joint meeting with the Indian Olympic Committee (IOC) next month.
Talking to reporters after a meeting with IOC member in India, Randhir Singh, Mr.Jitendra said he was confident of India returning to the Olympic movement soon.
“Most of the matters concerning the Sports Code have been resolved with all the stakeholders. Let me assure you that all the issues will be resolved soon,” Mr. Jitendra said.
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The Minister said all the National Sports Federations (NSFs) were willing to adopt the Sports Code.
“Yes, the NSFs are willing to adopt the Sports Code. The Sports Code is same as the Olympic charter,” he said.
“As far as we are concerned, we respect the autonomy of the NSFs and we do not intend to interfere with their functioning,” said Mr. Jitendra.
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A meeting between the Sports Minister and IOA acting chief V K Malhotra will take place on Thursday. Mr. Jitendra said he hoped that India will be able to put up a common front in the upcoming joint meeting with International Olympic Committee in Lausanne on May 7.