Sports Ministry Suspends Recognition of Table Tennis Federation of India

On 12 August 2026, the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports suspended recognition of the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) as the National Sports Federation for Table Tennis. The Ministry stated that TTFI had failed to adhere to the principles of good governance, transparency, accountability and democratic functioning expected of a recognised National Sports Federation, and had repeatedly disregarded directions and guidelines issued by the Ministry.

The order also refers to the continuing differences between TTFI’s President and Secretary General. According to the Ministry, the allegations and counter-allegations between the two office bearers had affected institutional decision-making and undermined confidence in the federation’s governance structure. Referring to the Delhi High Court’s observations in Kamlesh Mehta v. Table Tennis Federation of India & Ors. (W.P.(C) 1680/2026), the Ministry observed that such continuing discord could prejudice the interests of athletes and other stakeholders and blemish India’s image in the international sports arena.

The Ministry had issued a show-cause notice to TTFI on June 30, 2026, regarding the deficiencies in its functioning. TTFI submitted its response on July 7, 2026. After considering the response and the material on record, the Ministry found that TTFI’s explanations did not satisfactorily address concerns about its compliance with the directions and guidelines applicable to recognised National Sports Federations.

After considering the various factors, the Ministry concluded that further advisories or directions could not adequately address the deficiencies. It therefore suspended TTFI’s recognition with immediate effect under the National Sports Development Code of India, 2011. During the period of suspension, TTFI will not be entitled to financial assistance, official patronage or other benefits accruing from recognition as a National Sports Federation.

The Ministry has also requested the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), in consultation with the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), to take appropriate steps to establish an interim mechanism, including an Ad-Hoc Committee, to administer the sport. The Ministry said this arrangement would safeguard athletes’ interests and ensure continuity in their participation in national and international competitions until TTFI restores a duly compliant governance structure.