IPL Tax-Free: ITAT Rules It’s Sport Promotion, Not Business

The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) ruled that the Indian Premier League (IPL) is not liable to tax as it primarily promotes sports rather than operating as a commercial venture. The decision came after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) argued that IPL’s main objective is to nurture cricket talent and popularize the sport, not generate profits. ITAT emphasized that the league’s activities align with the BCCI’s charitable purpose of promoting cricket, making it eligible for tax exemptions under Section 2(15) of the Income Tax Act. The tribunal dismissed the tax department’s claim that IPL’s commercial aspects, such as media rights and sponsorships, made it a profit-driven entity. This ruling reinforces the distinction between sports promotion and business activities, setting a precedent for similar cases. The decision is a significant relief for the BCCI, ensuring IPL’s operations remain tax-exempt while continuing to boost cricket’s growth in India.