Verma, who had held the post since 1998, was re-elected for a fourth term following the late decision of Azharuddin, who is banned from cricket for life after being accused of match-fixing, not to contest the election.

Verma is one of the leading Indian sports officials who would be forced to step down under controversial Government proposals that would restrict the terms of office to 12 years.

Azharuddin, now politician who represents the ruling Indian National Congress, had been expected to be the pro-Government candidate but failed to complete the nomination process for the elections in Chennai.

Singh said: "'I see this as a victory for the Olympic Movement in the country.

"It is a big moment for sports in the country.

"Mr Verma was re-elected unanimously and people who tried to prop up a candidate against him has been shown the door.

"I congratulate him and the badminton fraternity."

Vijay Kumar Malhotra, the senior vice-president of IOA, also attacked the Government after the re-election of Verma.

He said: "It is a lesson for the Government.

"They should not interfere in our functioning and focus on Commonwealth Games preparation.

"The [Sports] Ministry supported Mohammad Azharuddin and tried everything possible to see that he becomes the next President.

"The national sports federations have the right to elect a person on merit and BAI has done that today.

"The Government guidelines infringe on our autonomy."

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