IHC Rules Pakistan Badminton Federation Elections Invalid, Orders Fresh Polls

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has declared the elections of the Pakistan Badminton Federation (PBF), held on October 24, 2025, as illegal, mandating the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) to conduct new elections within 90 days.

Justice Azam Khan announced the ruling following a petition filed by Imtiaz Gul and others, instructing the PSB to form an election commission that will oversee the electoral process in accordance with Rule 17 of the PBF Constitution. The court emphasized that the entire electoral process, from the announcement of the election schedule to the declaration of results, must be completed within the stipulated timeframe.

This decision has significant implications for the governance of badminton in Pakistan, as it seeks to restore integrity and transparency in the federation’s operations. The ruling also highlights the judiciary’s role in ensuring fair practices within sports organizations, which are crucial for the development of athletics in the country.

In addition to ordering fresh elections, the IHC has directed the formation of an ad hoc committee, led by the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination, to manage the federation’s affairs until the elections are held. The committee will also include a member from the PSB and one former badminton champion each from Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan, ensuring diverse representation.