Only those with vested interest opposing the bill: Maken

 "The proposed bill is being opposed by only those people whose vested interests will get hampered. Once the bill is passed, those holding the top posts in federations for decades will have to step down and accountability will be fixed," Maken, who was here to visit SAI regional centre told reporters.

"If the bill is not passed the sports system in the country cannot improve," he added. He also clarified that the bill will be based on the charter of International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The Minister said that more than 50 prominent countries of the world, including USA, have sports related law but it was yet to take shape in India. But he expressed confidence that the bill would get passed in the parliament.

"The bill will surely get passed in the Parliament," he said. On possibility of framing rules and regulation for cricket players, Maken said all sports would be treated equally and rules would be applicable to all.

Even though Maken termed the proposed merger of Hockey India (HI) and India Hockey Federation (IHF) as a tough job, he made it clear that it is a must for the development of the national game.

"For the development of hockey, HI and IHF have to be brought together," he said. When asked why HI was given the responsibility to organise champions trophy and qualifying rounds of Olympics, Maken said that the first target was to qualify for the London Olympics next year.

"As the Federation of International Hockey recognises HI, the body has been asked to organise the two important events," Maken said. On improving the implementation of panchayati youth sports campaign scheme, launched to promote sports at rural level, Maken said it has been decided to give Rs 1 lakh at panchayat level and Rs 5 lakh at block level for construction of sports complexes.

He also added that for monitoring of the campaign, 110 supervisors would be appointed, of which 50 have already been recruited.