Lifetime Ban Warning! Strong Crackdown on ‘Unauthorized’ Kho-Kho Tournaments by KKFI & Maharashtra Association Stay Away from ‘Kho-Kho India’ & ‘Kho-Kho Maharashtra’ Events – Clear Directive by Dr. Chandrajit Jadhav; Crucial Step to Safeguard Players’ Careers Explosive Decision Shakes Kho-Kho Fraternity

Lifetime Ban Warning! Strong Crackdown on ‘Unauthorized’ Kho-Kho Tournaments by KKFI & Maharashtra Association

Stay Away from ‘Kho-Kho India’ & ‘Kho-Kho Maharashtra’ Events – Clear Directive by Dr. Chandrajit Jadhav; Crucial Step to Safeguard Players’ Careers

Explosive Decision Shakes Kho-Kho Fraternity

 

Pune : In a bold and game-changing move, the Kho-Kho Federation of India and the Maharashtra Kho-Kho Association have issued a strict warning against participation in unauthorized tournaments, creating a major stir across the kho-kho fraternity. It has been clearly stated that players, coaches, and referees participating in events आयोजित under the names ‘Kho-Kho India’ or ‘Kho-Kho Maharashtra’ will face a lifetime ban from all official competitions. The directive, issued by Dr. Chandrajit Jadhav, General Secretary of the Maharashtra association, has been circulated to all district units, emphasizing zero tolerance towards such activities.

 

Only KKFI Recognized; Players Urged to Stay Alert

The Kho-Kho Federation of India remains the only officially recognized body by the Government of India, the Indian Olympic Association, and international federations. However, in recent times, parallel competitions under unauthorized banners have surfaced, misleading players and putting their official careers at serious risk. Authorities have strongly cautioned that participation in such events could result in loss of eligibility, government benefits, and future opportunities, making awareness among players extremely critical.

 

Strict Directives and Final Deadline Announced

During a recent official परिषद held in Pune, all office bearers and members unanimously stressed that no player, coach, or official should participate in unauthorized tournaments, selection trials, coaching camps, or referee exams. Those who had unknowingly participated earlier have been given a final opportunity to submit a written apology and undertaking before 5 April, failing which strict action will be enforced. Post this deadline, any violation will result in a permanent ban from all Maharashtra Kho-Kho Association activities, reinforcing discipline and accountability in the sport.

 

Legal Authority Lies Only with Official Federation

It has been reiterated that all administrative and regulatory अधिकार related to kho-kho in India lie solely with the Kho-Kho Federation of India, which is recognized as the National Sports Federation by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The federation is also affiliated with the Asian Kho-Kho Federation and the International Kho-Kho Federation. Any event conducted without its approval holds no legal or sporting validity. In this regard, Upkar Singh Virk, General Secretary of KKFI, had already issued an official circular on 2 March 2026, warning stakeholders about such unauthorized activities.

 

Message to Grassroots: Protect the Future of Players

The association has urged all district units to actively spread awareness among grassroots players, clubs, and coaches to prevent misinformation. According to Dr. Chandrajit Jadhav, maintaining the integrity, discipline, and official structure of kho-kho is essential for the growth of the sport. Ensuring that players follow the सही मार्ग will help them secure long-term benefits and recognition.

 

Official Statement: Choose the Right Path

“Many players unknowingly fall into the trap of unauthorized organizations and risk their careers. Players must participate only in officially recognized district, state, and national tournaments to avail government benefits and future opportunities,” said Dr. Chandrajit Jadhav, reinforcing the importance of making informed decisions.