Lodha Committee recommendation on BCCI reforms are illegal : Katju

Justice (Retired) Markandey Katju termed the Supreme Court verdict on the BCCI reforms as recommended by Lodha Committee as unconstitutional and illegal. Justice Katju who has been appointed by the BCCI to advise on the Supreme Court verdict, advised the Board to file a review petition before a larger bench of the Apex Court and not to meet the Committee as scheduled on Tuesday.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi Sunday, Justice Katju said what the Supreme Court has done is violation of principles of separation of powers as enshrined in the Indian Constitution. He said it is the legislature's prerogative to make laws and if judiciary starts making laws, it



would set a dangerous precedent. 

Justice Katju said, since BCCI's constitution has been prepared as per Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act, both the Supreme Court and the Lodha Committee cannot forcibly change its by-laws.  The BCCI alone can amend by-laws by passing a special resolution by two-third of majority.  However, Justice Katju agreed that there is a need for reforms in the BCCI. 

Meanwhile, BCCI secretary Ajay Shirke said that the BCCI will study the interim report prepared by Justice Katju and then take a call.

The Apex Court had appointed the Lodha Committee to suggest reforms in the working of the BCCI.