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IOA Panel Report Backs HAI, Calls for Compliance With Olympic Charter
Indian handball is embroiled in a recognition dispute between the International Handball Federation (IHF) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). The IHF has informed the IOA that the Handball Association of India (HAI) is the only internationally recognized body, while the IOA has recognized the HFI.
Preparations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games are progressing rapidly. Still, the issue of handball in India remains entangled between the International Handball Federation (IHF) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
In response to the situation, the IHF has sent letters to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) confirming the Handball Association of India (HAI) informing them that they have accepted the Handball Federation of India (HFI) as the sole governing body for handball in India. It is, in fact, the HFI that represents India in international handball.
The HAI is currently the only genuine governing body for handball in India, accepted by both the International Handball Federation (IHF) and the Asian Handball Federation (AHF). An elected General Assembly of the HAI was held on June 26, 2023, under the supervision of the IHF and the IOA, after which the IOA formally recognized the elected Board. Furthermore, Indian judicial precedents and the IOA Panel's clear findings state that, under the current circumstances, while the HAI is recognized by the IHF and AHF, the IOA may, if necessary, field the Indian team in international competitions through an ad hoc body in consultation with the HAI.
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In accordance with the findings of the IOA Panel Report of November 22, 2025, and Articles 28.1.2 and 29 of the IOC Olympic Charter, the IOA is requested to immediately correct its public records. This includes removing any mention of HFI as a member handball body and refraining from any communication that suggests NOC support without international recognition for HFI.
Furthermore, in accordance with Article 26.1 of the IOA Constitution and the Panel's recommendations, all matters relating to international representation, entries, and nomination of the Indian team must be handled solely through HAI. Steps taken by the IOA in full compliance with the Constitution, IHF and AHF regulations, and the Olympic Charter will be in the best interest of Indian handball and will contribute to an amicable resolution of the ongoing dispute between HFI and HAI.
