The International Olympic Association (IOA) has suspended India's Olympic Committee over an alleged interference by the government and for not holding elections according to the world body's rules, an Associated Press report citing two officials with knowledge of the decision said.

The officials, on condition of anonymity, said that the decision was taken on Tuesday at its executive board meeting. The official announcement was yet to be made.

The IOA had earlier warned India that harsh actions would be taken if the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) failed to comply with apex body's regulations governing the elections.

It had repeatedly stated that the IOC would have to adhere to its own constitution and the Olympic Charter to retain its affiliation to the IOA. However, the IOC went ahead with its decision to hold the Wednesday elections under the government's sports code, inviting the wrath of the world body.

The suspension will stop the funding to the Indian body and prevent its official bearers from participating in Olympic meetings and events.

Indian athletes also will be barred from competing in the Olympic events under the Indian flag. 

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