AIFF adopts constitution as per Supreme Court order

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) on Monday formally adopted Article 25.3 (c) and (d) of the Constitution, as directed by the Supreme Court (SC) of India, in accordance with its order dated October 15, 2025.

As per Article 25.3 (c) and (d), an office holder in the Executive Committee of the AIFF cannot hold office as an office holder in a Member/State Association.

“In our judgment, we have allowed the current executive to continue till the end of his term to ensure that there is minimum disruption to the already postponed sporting events,” the SC said in its October 15 order after the AIFF sought clarification on the two controversial articles – Article 23.3, and Article 25.3 (c) and 25.3 (d).

«In the same vein, and to serve the same purpose, we direct AIFF to adopt Articles 25.3 (c) and (d) within three weeks from today. We are, therefore, of the view that these Articles shall be retained. However, Articles 25.3 (c) and 25.3 (d) shall come into force after the current executive departs from office,» the SC bench of Justices PS Narasimha and Joymalya Bagchi said.

However, the apex court in its ruling had said that the AIFF did not have to adopt Article 23.3 of the draft Constitution regarding the requirement of SC nod for any amendment.

The AIFF’s constitution case has been before the apex court since 2017, when the SC ordered the formulation of a new constitution, one that was filed in 2023 by former Justice (Retd.) L. Nageswara Rao.

Indian football’s governing body said in its statement on Monday, «The AIFF Constitution is now in accordance with the directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India and the framework recommended by Justice (Retd) L Nageswara Rao. This finally resolves a matter pending since 2017.»

«The AlFF expresses its sincere appreciation and gratitude to all stakeholders and contributors whose time, effort and cooperation were integral to the successful completion of this process. In accordance with the Statutes of FIFA and the AFC, the AIFF remains committed to its mandate to develop, govern and promote football across India,» it added.

(with PTI inputs)

Published on November 24, 2025