World federation backs Indian archery body despite government's snub

The World Archery Federation (FITA) has said it supports the Archery Association of India (AAI) despite the Indian sports ministry de-recognising the national federation

FITA secretary general Tom Dielen, in a letter to AAI president Vijay Kumar Malhotra, said the sport's governing body approves of the AAI election process and recognises its newly-elected body. Dielen also disclosed that FITA has already informed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) about its decision.

"I was informed by AAI Secretary General Anil Kamineni that the Government (of India) is not accepting the outcome of the General Assembly claiming that it is not in compliance with Indian law. World Archery clearly states once more that the outcome of the general assembly is recognised by World Archery," wrote Dielen. "The constitution of the Indian Archery Association is the only document that has relevance for the conduct of the general assembly and this document was respected. We have also informed the IOC of this matter."

AAI was de-recognised by the ministry earlier in the week for not following the Sports Code of India aimed at limiting the tenure of office bearers. Malhotra has been AAI chief for 10 terms, spanning 40 years.