The Supreme Court on Thursday stressed the importance of sports and physical activity for children, observing that youngsters are increasingly moving away from playgrounds in the digital age.
A Bench of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta were hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking recognition of the right to sports and physical literacy as a fundamental right under Article 21A of the Constitution, which guarantees free and compulsory education for children aged six to 14 years.
The plea also seeks compulsory sports education and regular physical activity to be incorporated into school curriculum. Highlighting the urgency of the matter, the Court noted that the request was both commendable and necessary, observing that children in the digital era are increasingly detached from outdoor physical activity.
The PIL was originally filed in 2017 by a third-year law student seeking directions to the Union government to constitute a high-level committee to consider constitutional amendments promoting sports education, sporting values and a sporting culture as part of the education system.
In April 2022, the Supreme Court had sought responses from the Centre and State governments on suggestions submitted by Senior Advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, who has been assisting the Court as amicus curiae.
Sankaranarayanan had proposed amendments to Article 21A and the Directive Principles of State Policy to create a State obligation to promote sports, physical education and sporting culture. He had also suggested adequate funding for sports and measures requiring schools, education boards and other institutions to facilitate sporting activities.
Among his recommendations was a proposal for school boards such as CBSE and ICSE to earmark 90 minutes of school time for physical activity, besides improving access to sporting facilities, including for differently-abled children. During Thursday’s hearing, Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj, appearing for the Union government, informed the Court that the Centre was yet to submit its response.
The Bench observed that making sports part of the compulsory curriculum could help address the growing disconnect between children and physical activity. Nataraj agreed with the need for greater emphasis on sports and playgrounds in schools. The ASG submitted that this is of utmost importance
The Court was also informed that an application seeking impleadment had been filed on behalf of four Arjuna Awardees. The Bench directed that the report submitted by Sankaranarayanan on March 17, 2022 be uploaded and shared with counsel representing the States and other parties within two weeks.
The matter will be heard next on September 22.
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