According to reports, KIO has maintained that the notice lacks legal basis and has been issued without proper consultation with the recognised international karate authorities.
KIO is an affiliated member of World Karate Federation (WKF), Asian Karate Do Federation (AKF), South Asian Karate Do Federation (SAKF) and Commonwealth Karate Federation (CKF). Moreover, WKF is a member of International Olympic Committee and AKF is a member of Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). And as per the Olympic Charter KIO is a member of its World body, which is WKF.
KIO has reiterated that its primary responsibility remains the welfare and development of Indian karate athletes. The organisation expressed concern that attempts to disrupt ongoing national-level activities and athlete selection processes could adversely affect the preparation and participation of Indian karatekas in future international competitions.
The organisation stated that karate in India has faced prolonged administrative challenges due to the existence of multiple competing bodies claiming authority over the sport. KIO emphasized that such disputes should not come at the expense of athletes who have dedicated years of hard work and sacrifice to represent the nation.
KIO further affirmed that it will continue to take all necessary legal and administrative measures to safeguard the interests of athletes and ensure that opportunities for competition, talent development, and international participation remain available to deserving sportspersons. The organisation stressed that the future of karate should be determined through transparent governance, adherence to international sporting principles, and a commitment to athlete welfare.
The organisation called upon all stakeholders, including government authorities, sports administrators, coaches and athletes, to work collectively towards establishing a stable and unified framework for karate in India. KIO emphasized that the ultimate objective should be the growth of the sport and the success of Indian karate athletes on the international stage.
KIO's Historic International Success: A New Era for Indian Karate
Over the past six years, the Karate India Organisation (KIO) has transformed the international standing of Indian Karate and achieved milestones that were previously unprecedented in the history of the sport in India.
Under the banner of KIO, Indian karatekas have secured historic medals at prestigious international events including the WKF Karate 1 Series-A, Asian Karate Championships, Commonwealth Karate Championships, and South Asian Karate Championships. This exposure has significantly elevated the standard of Indian karate and enabled athletes to compete against the world's best competitors.
KIO has also developed a strong technical foundation by producing a large number of internationally qualified referees, judges, and coaches, helping India gain greater recognition and credibility in the global karate community. The appointment of Indian officials to important positions within WKF & AKF further reflects the growing influence of Indian karate on the world stage.
The achievements of the past six years represent a golden period for Indian karate. Never before has India witnessed such sustained international success, global participation, and technical advancement in karate. KIO's efforts have not only produced medal-winning athletes but have also established India as an emerging force in international karate, creating a legacy that will inspire future generations of karatekas.
KIO reiterated its unwavering commitment to promoting karate throughout the country and ensuring that athletes remain at the centre of every decision taken for the sport's future.
"Our foremost duty is to protect the interests of athletes and preserve opportunities for their growth and international participation. The development of karate in India must not be hindered by administrative disputes," the KIO stated.
