Indian Golf Union Affirms Its Sole Authority in National Golf Governance
Gyanhigyan english January 20, 2026 10:40 PM

The Indian Golf Union (IGU), under the leadership of Brijinder Singh, has been confirmed as the only officially recognized National Sports Federation for golf in India, as announced on Monday.


Recognition from Authorities

According to a statement from IGU, the team led by Brijinder Singh has received recognition from the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MYAS), the International Golf Federation (IGF), The R&A (Royal & Ancient, Scotland), the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC), and the Confederation of Professional Golf (CPG). The statement emphasized that no other group has been authorized by the Ministry to represent Indian golf internationally or to select national teams.


Legal Backing for IGU

The IGU's claim to being the legitimate national federation is supported by court orders that affirm its status. The statement noted that these judicial decisions remain effective and have not been overturned or modified. Any claims made against these court orders are deemed misleading.


Active Governance and Achievements

Over the past year, the Brijinder-led IGU has actively promoted golf in India, including selecting and sending national teams to international competitions organized by The Royal & Ancient, APGC, and the United States Golf Association (USGA). These efforts were aimed at enhancing India's presence in global golf.


Additionally, the IGU successfully organized numerous domestic tournaments, ensuring the continuity of competitive golf and player development. In the 2024-25 season, the IGU conducted 32 domestic tournaments and 48 feeder tour events, while also sending teams to 15 international tournaments, including the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024. Furthermore, the IGU hosted its first Level-3 Tournament Administrators & Referees Seminar in March 2025, with a significant pass rate.


Criticism of Illegal Groups

The IGU's statement criticized a rival group, labeling it as inactive and lacking any legitimate activities over the past year. It was noted that this group only resurfaces when external organizations, such as the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), become involved.


The IGU accused the IOA of actions that seem to intentionally create confusion and disrupt the governance of golf in India, contributing to unnecessary factionalism.


Exclusive Rights for Team Selections

The IGU asserted that it is the only NSF authorized to submit entries for major events like the Commonwealth Games, Olympics, and Asian Games. Any other attempts at team selection are considered invalid and may lead to legal action. Players for the Asian Games will be chosen based on their world golf rankings, following the IGU's selection policy.


Operational Control and Financial Transparency

The IGU emphasized that the rival group does not control any operational aspects of the Indian Golf Union, including its official website or bank accounts. All administrative and financial activities are conducted transparently by the recognized office-bearers.


Future Plans and Compliance

During the 65th Annual General Meeting held last December, participation from 15 state associations was noted. The IGU expressed its commitment to developing golf in the North Eastern states of India as a key focus area.


The IGU has also complied with statutory requirements by filing annual returns with the Registrar of Societies, demonstrating its legitimacy and operational continuity, in contrast to the rival faction's inactivity. The IGU remains dedicated to promoting and governing golf in India in a lawful and inclusive manner.


Call for Clarity and Unity

The IGU concluded by urging stakeholders, athletes, and the public to rely on verified facts, court orders, and official communications from the recognized Indian Golf Union, rejecting any misleading claims or insinuations.


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