The Supreme Court Appoints Justice L. Nageswara Rao as Ombudsman for Bihar Cricket Association
Bihar Cricket Association's Ombudsman Position Filled by Ex-Judge Nageswara Rao, According to SC Decision.
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India appointed retired Supreme Court judge Justice L. Nageswara Rao as the ombudsman of the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) on August 12, 2025[1][3][4]. This appointment was made in response to allegations of illegal activities by some office bearers within the BCA, and to address concerns about "dirty politics" and mismanagement of public funds[2][3].
Reasons for the Appointment
The primary reason for appointing Justice Rao was to investigate and take action against illegal activities allegedly conducted by certain office bearers within the BCA[1][3]. The appointment aims to ensure the smooth functioning of the BCA without external interference or internal disputes among its members[1]. The decision reflects a broader concern about the misuse of public funds and the need for transparency in cricket associations[2][3].
Overruling Previous Appointments
The Supreme Court's decision to appoint Justice Rao overruled a previous order by the Patna High Court. Initially, a single judge of the Patna High Court had appointed Justice Shaikesh Kumar Singh as the ombudsman, but this was later set aside by a division bench of the high court. The division bench directed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to appoint a new ombudsman[3]. The Supreme Court intervened in this matter after a special leave petition was filed against the high court's order, ultimately appointing Justice Rao as the ombudsman[3][4].
The Role of Senior Advocate Rajiv Shakdher
Senior advocate Rajiv Shakdher is representing Aditya Prakash Verma, a former secretary of the Cricket Association of Bihar, in the court. The hearing involves a question about Verma's locus standi, or legal standing, to challenge the decision[1].
The Court's Remarks
The court remarks that the proceedings are a waste of public revenue due to personal grievances in the cricket association. Additionally, the court questioned BCCI's involvement in the matter, stating it is unclear why BCCI should be involved in the appointment of the ombudsman for BCA[2]. The honorarium for Justice Rao will be fixed in consultation with the parties.
In summary, Justice Rao's appointment by the Supreme Court addresses concerns about illegal activities and ensures proper governance within the BCA, effectively overruling previous appointments and decisions by the Patna High Court. The decision underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of public funds and the administration of cricket associations.
[1] India Today. (2025, August 12). Supreme Court appoints Justice L. Nageswara Rao as Ombudsman of Bihar Cricket Association. Retrieved from https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket/story/supreme-court-appoints-justice-l-nageswara-rao-as-ombudsman-of-bihar-cricket-association-1831172-2025-08-12
[2] The Hindu. (2025, August 13). Supreme Court questions BCCI's involvement in Bihar Cricket Association's ombudsman appointment. Retrieved from https://www.thehindu.com/sports/cricket/supreme-court-questions-bccis-involvement-in-bihar-cricket-associations-ombudsman-appointment/article35518547.ece
[3] NDTV. (2025, August 13). Supreme Court Appoints Justice L. Nageswara Rao as Ombudsman of Bihar Cricket Association. Retrieved from https://www.ndtv.com/sports/supreme-court-appoints-justice-l-nageswara-rao-as-ombudsman-of-bihar-cricket-association-3253658
[4] The Indian Express. (2025, August 13). Supreme Court appoints Justice L. Nageswara Rao as Ombudsman of Bihar Cricket Association. Retrieved from https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/supreme-court-appoints-justice-l-nageswara-rao-as-ombudsman-of-bihar-cricket-association-7752343/
In the midst of concerns about improper governance and misuse of public funds in sports, Justice L. Nageswara Rao's appointment as the ombudsman of the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) by the Supreme Court aims to bring transparency and accountability to the association. The decision highlights the significance of health, not just in physical sports but also in the overall management of public institutions.
