Kerala child rights panel seeks rugby's inclusion in school sports meet

Kerala's child rights commission has directed the General Education Department to include rugby in the state school sports meet and protect pupils' opportunity to qualify for national competitions.

The case followed a petition by Ameya Sandeep, a student at Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Peroorkada. She had represented the under-18 girls' team at the National Rugby Championship and argued that rugby appeared in the 70th National School Games but was absent from Kerala's school sports manual.

After approaching the education department, Sandeep went to the Kerala High Court. On October 1, the court gave the state government four weeks to decide the matter. The commission's directions address the practical steps needed to give pupils access to competition.

Officials were asked to consider a district or state-level tournament, or transparent selection trials. The arrangements must provide suitable facilities, age categories and safety measures.

The panel also called for officials to work around national competition dates and entry deadlines so pupils do not miss the chance to participate. Amendments to the state sports manual are needed for the 2026-27 season.