NEW DELHI: Is the use of the word ?India? in the name of a private association or organisation illegal, unless used with prior sanction of the government?

This is the question that will come up for decision following two complaints filed against the use of ?India? in the name of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and in ?Team India?.

The complaints have been filed in Lucknow by social activists Amitabh and Nutan Thakur to the government under section 5 of the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1950. Both these complaints have been sent to the competent authority, director (Internal Trade Division), Department of Consumer Affairs.

The first complaint is about use of the word India in BCCI and the second about using words "Team India" for BCCI?s cricket teams.

The complainants say section 3 of this Act prohibits use of certain emblems and names, including the word India, without permission from the competent authority. BCCI is a private society under the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act, 1975 which always asserts its independence and vehemently denies any official control. Yet it repeatedly uses the word India which suggests the patronage and connection with the Government. Hence it should be punished under section 5 of the Act.