IPL Anti-Discrimination Code to Remain in Force for Three Months After Season Ends

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to enforce the Anti-Discrimination Code more strictly in relation to the Indian Premier League (IPL). According to the new directive, even after the tournament ends, players, officials, and all stakeholders will remain under the purview of the Anti-Discrimination Code for three months following the termination of their contracts.

The policy, recently shared with the franchises, states that the BCCI and IPL will retain jurisdiction to adjudicate any incidents of discriminatory conduct that occur before or within this three-month period.

The primary objective of this code is to protect the image, popularity, and integrity of the IPL. It aims to strictly prevent any behavior that may insult, humiliate, or intimidate individuals based on race, religion, culture, skin color, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or marital status.

The policy further clarifies that any conduct—whether through language, gestures, or other means—that insults, threatens, or demeans another individual will be considered an offense.

Sanctions for such offenses have been outlined in a graded manner. A first offense may result in a suspension ranging from 4 to 8 matches, a second offense may lead to a suspension ranging from 8 matches to a lifetime ban, and a third or subsequent offense could result in a ban from one year up to a lifetime.

Additionally, any player or official found guilty will be required to undergo mandatory education or counseling programs to promote awareness and prevent future misconduct.

The BCCI Ombudsman will adjudicate such cases; however, they will not have the authority to alter or amend the results of any match.

Compliance with this code has been made a mandatory condition for participation in the IPL. Furthermore, umpires, match referees, team managers, or authorized representatives of franchises can report any incident to the BCCI CEO within 36 hours, following which an investigation will be initiated.