With air pollution levels in the national capital once again breaching hazardous marks, the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has sought formal clarification from the Delhi government on whether it can proceed with hosting the National Shooting Championships in the city next month.
The Delhi government, following direction from the Supreme Court and High Court observations, has already advised schools, universities and sports bodies to postpone outdoor sports events in view of the deteriorating air quality. The order mandates that institutions defer competitions planned during the peak pollution period between November and January.
NRAI’s flagship annual championships are scheduled from December 11 to January 4 at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Ranges in Tughlaqabad, while shotgun events are slated for December 1–5. The rifle events, however, will be held in Bhopal.
Given the ambiguity around whether the directive applies to national-level events, the federation has written to the Delhi government seeking a clear position.
“The Delhi government order says it’s specifically for the students and the schools. We are now seeking clarification from the body that has issued the orders. We will wait for their decision,” NRAI secretary Rajiv Bhatia said.
Bhatia admitted the situation has caused significant uncertainty.
“Yes, of course it’s stressful. We are trying our best and if we get the permission we will organise the competition,” he said.
Standby Venues Under Consideration
Alongside waiting for the government’s response, the NRAI has begun internal discussions on potential alternative venues across the country should Delhi be ruled out due to pollution.
“Naturally shifting is an option. We can’t go against the law of the land,” Bhatia said, adding that moving the championships would be inconvenient for organisers and athletes alike, given the logistical scale of the month-long event.
“We will try to have the competition on the same dates. NRAI cannot be blamed for that,” he added.
Courts Flag Concerns Over Sports Activities in Toxic Air
The Supreme Court had on November 19 asked the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to consider directing schools in Delhi-NCR to postpone open-air sports competitions to “safer months.”
On the same day, the Delhi High Court sought a status report from the Directorate of Education in response to a plea filed by school students requesting a halt to outdoor sports tournaments during the peak pollution season.
The Delhi government subsequently issued orders directing immediate postponement of outdoor competitions by schools, universities, colleges and sports associations affiliated to national federations and the Union sports ministry.
For now, the NRAI awaits a final call from authorities before proceeding — or packing up for another city.
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