Kathmandu: A new ad hoc committee of the Nepal Olympic Committee (NOC) has been formed under the chairmanship of former NOC president Dhruba Bahadur Pradhan. The nine-member committee was announced a week after Youth and Sports Minister Tejulal Chaudhary declared the existing NOC executive body illegal and pledged to create a new one.

Formation Announced by 23 Sports Associations
According to spokesperson Samim Mian Ansari—a former Wrestling Association president and ex-chair of the Nepal Muslim Commission—the committee was formed during a meeting of presidents, general secretaries, and office bearers from 23 national sports associations affiliated with the NOC. A statement issued on NOC letterhead confirmed the formation of the ad hoc body, though details of other office bearers remain undisclosed.

Old Dispute Resurfaces
The move has reignited controversy surrounding the NOC. Last December’s NOC election had re-elected Jeevan Ram Shrestha for a third term, sparking criticism over its legality. Though the Asian Olympic Council resolved the issue under IOC guidance, the case remains pending in court.

Government vs. Olympic Leadership Battle
The NOC has long faced disputes, with no government in Nepal formally recognizing its leadership since 1963. Instead, governments have often attempted to control Olympic governance themselves. The latest conflict stems from Shrestha seeking a third term, despite statutes originally limiting presidents to two terms. Shrestha retained power after amending those statutes.

Competing Claims and Legal Threats
Shrestha, who is also a CPN-S leader, dismissed the new formation, stating:
"The Olympic Charter and Nepal’s Sports Development Act 2077 allow only one internationally recognized Olympic Committee, and it operates under my leadership."
He warned of legal action against misuse of NOC letterhead.

Who is Dhruba Bahadur Pradhan?
Pradhan, a former Inspector General of Police, has served as NOC chair twice before and currently holds positions as RPP Vice-Chair and Member of Parliament. He could not be reached for comment after the announcement.